Dr Cathy Foley named as Australia’s next Chief Scientist

Dr Foley, who has spent the last two years as the CSIRO’s Chief Scientist, will take over from Dr Alan Finkel AO, whose tenure comes to an end in December 2020. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Dr Foley had the background needed to deliver during such a pivotal time in history.

“As we recover from COVID-19 and look to rebuild a brighter future, the role of the Chief Scientist has never been more important,” Morrison said. “Dr Foley has a big task ahead to drive collaboration between industry and the science and research community, as we look to create jobs for the COVID-19 recovery and for the future.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews also thanked Dr Finkel for his service and said Dr Foley would bring a unique mix of experience to the role.

“Dr Foley is highly regarded in the scientific community, has extensive experience working with government, but most importantly understands how to drive collaboration between industry and researchers,” said Andrews. “We know science will play a crucial role in helping to create jobs at this critical time, and Dr Foley’s skills as a talented science communicator will help sell that important message.

“Like me, Dr Foley is also a strong advocate for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and her lived experience will make her an important role model for aspiring young scientists.”

Dr Finkel praised the appointment, describing his successor as “an excellent choice.”

“I have known [Cathy] for many years,” said Dr Finkel. “I feel somewhat honoured to be followed in the role by such an esteemed person. I am confident in handing the Chief Scientist’s baton to her safe and experienced hands. Cathy is first and foremost a scientist ─ a world renowned physicist ─ and a leader in every aspect of her professional life.”

Morrison also commended Dr Finkel for his time in his position: “I would like to thank Dr Alan Finkel AO for his outstanding contribution as Chief Scientist over the past five years. He has been a valued and respected voice to Government, and I know he will continue to make a significant contribution to the Australian and international science communities.”

CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall praised Dr Foley on the appointment: “The appointment is testament to Cathy’s personal scientific excellence, her broad vision for Australia through her invaluable work at CSIRO, and her commitment and role-modelling for diversity and inclusion for the next generation of scientists. Cathy has been with CSIRO for nearly 36 years, beginning as a research scientist, working in manufacturing, and becoming CSIRO’s Chief Scientist in August 2018.”

Dr Foley is the second woman to be named Australia’s Chief Scientist, after Professor Penny Sackett, who held the role from 2008-2011. Dr Foley is a Fellow of both the Australian Academy of Science, and the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering. She is an accomplished scientist who has made significant contributions in the area of physics relating to superconductors.

Her appointment as Australia’s Chief Scientist is for three years, starting in January 2021.