Australia’s national science agency CSIRO has named Professor Doug Hilton as its new chief executive, effective 29 September 2023.
Hilton is a molecular and cellular biologist, the Director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI), the Lorenzo and Pamela Galli Chair in Medical Biology, and the Head of the Department of Medical Biology at the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences.
Professor Hilton has spent the last 14 years as a molecular and cellular biologist working to improve outcomes for cancer patients, as well as those suffering from infectious and immunological diseases, developmental disorders, and age-related diseases.
The appointment follows eight years served by Dr Larry Marshall, who completes his third and final term as chief executive in June 2023, CSIRO revealed in a media release.
During his tenure, Dr Marshall oversaw a number of notable projects and will leave as the CSIRO’s longest-serving chief executive in the previous 50 years.
On announcing the appointment, Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic welcomed the decision to appoint Professor Douglas Hilton as the agency’s new chief executive.
“Professor Hilton brings decades of experience to this role, which will no doubt prove invaluable to helping address some of Australia’s greatest scientific challenges,” Husic said.
He emphasised Prof Hilton’s contribution to the research of blood cell production and communication in an effort to make Australians live longer healthier lives.
He added,” Beyond this, he has shown a real commitment to boost gender equality and diversity in sciences, something I am also incredibly passionate about.”
The minister also took the opportunity to thank Prof Hilton, saying, “After serving eight years in the top job with CSIRO, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Larry Marshall for his significant contribution as Chief Executive. “
Minister Husic added that Dr Marshall has shown a deep commitment to Australian science and led the organisation through some challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which truly tested the mettle of our scientific capabilities.
Kirsten Rose, CSIRO’s executive director for Future Industries, has been named acting chief executive from July 1 until Professor Hilton’s start date in September.
