The Australian Academy of Science (AAS) warmly congratulates Professor Alan Finkel on his new appointment as Chief Scientist of Australia.
A renowned engineer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Professor Finkel was until recently Chancellor of Monash University. He is currently the President of the Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering (ATSE) and chairs the Australian Council of Learned Academies (ACOLA).
Professor Finkel is highly respected for his research in neuroscience and his entrepreneurial skills. He founded the successful company Axon Instruments and invented and commercialised a device to speed up drug research. He is also deeply committed to enhancing community awareness and understanding of science, co-founding Cosmos Magazine in Australia with his partner, science journalist Dr Elizabeth Finkel, as well as e-learning platform company, Stile Education.
“Professor Finkel is an excellent choice for this position and I’m confident he will speak strongly and passionately on behalf of Australian science, particularly in his advice to government,” said AAS President Professor Andrew Holmes.
“The AAS and ATSE have never been closer; we have worked together well on important issues facing Australia’s research community, including our recent partnership on the Science in Australia Gender Equity initiative,” Professor Holmes said.
Professor Holmes also thanked outgoing Chief Scientist, Professor Ian Chubb, for his strong leadership for science in Australia, including establishing ACOLA as a trusted source of expert, interdisciplinary advice to the Commonwealth Science Council.
“Since his appointment Professor Chubb has been a tireless advocate of the fundamental importance of science, technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills as the key to the country’s future prosperity, and a driving force behind the identification of strategic research priorities for the nation,” Professor Holmes said.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
