- The next Chief Scientist, Professor Sharath Sriram, has been appointed to the role for a three-year term
- WA Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken AC's tenure concludes after more than a decade in the role
- The Chief Scientist provides key advice to the WA Government on science, technology and innovation
The Cook Government has appointed the next Chief Scientist of Western Australia, following the retirement of Professor Peter Klinken AC from the role.
Professor Sharath Sriram will be WA's fourth Chief Scientist and starts his three-year term in the role today (June 3).
A distinguished science and research leader with 20 years of experience in science and technology, Professor Sriram brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role and will continue helping the State to build its science and technology capabilities.
With specialisations in engineering and medical devices, Professor Sriram has also been actively contributing to science policy and advocacy with a focus on fostering innovation and developing long-term strategies. He is currently the President of the national peak body Science and Technology Australia and has served on the board since 2018.
Professor Klinken was appointed in 2014 and has been the State's longest serving Chief Scientist to date. During his time as Chief Scientist, Professor Klinken played a key role in supporting the State's strategic priorities across the science and technology sector as well as the energy transition including:
- The 10-year Science and Technology Plan
- WA Innovation Strategy
- State STEM Skills Strategy Future Jobs, Future Skills Driving STEM skills in Western Australia
- Health and Medical Life Sciences Industry Strategy
- Space Industries Strategy
- Diversify WA and Future State
- Premier's Science Awards and WA Science Hall of Fame
- Advice to government on opportunities to supercharge energy transition in WA.
Professor Klinken has made significant contributions to Western Australia in the role, acting as an ambassador for science, helping to shape key strategies and raising public awareness about the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) for the future.
To learn more visit:
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"I welcome Professor Sharath Sriram to the role and know that with his wealth of experience, WA is in a safe pair of hands when it comes to further unlocking our science and technology potential.
"My government is focused on ensuring the expertise and guidance from our Chief Scientist benefits the lives of Western Australians as well as help plan for our future.
"I would also like to thank our outgoing and longest serving Chief Scientist, Professor Peter Klinken AC, who has made an incredible contribution to our State."
As stated by Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"On behalf of the WA Government and all Western Australians, I would like to congratulate Professor Sharath Sriram on his appointment as Chief Scientist of Western Australia.
"As the outgoing and longest serving Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken AC concludes his term, I want to sincerely thank him for his dedication and enduring contribution to science in Western Australia.
"The Chief Scientist of Western Australia plays a crucial role in providing important and strategic advice to the Government on matters to do with science, technology and innovation."
