RMIT trailblazer named new Chief Scientist

RMIT trailblazer named new Chief Scientist

RMIT’s Professor Sharath Sriram has been named as Western Australia’s new Chief Scientist.

The role provides strategic advice to government on science, technology and innovation – areas Sharath has blazed a trail in as an RMIT research leader and as Science & Technology Australia President, both roles he will continue.

WA Premier Roger Cook made the announcement following the departure of the state’s longest serving Chief Scientist, Professor Peter Klinken AC.

“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,” he said.

Sharath has created and delivered breakthrough technologies in nanoelectronics, sensors and medical devices, jointly led the Functional Materials and Microsystems Research Group and created the new $15 million Discovery to Device research facility, which enables medical device prototyping and small volume manufacture. 

In his role at RMIT, he has created more than $9 million in commercial partnerships  and spurred innovations including smart bedding products for aged-care support, a wearable device for continuous molecular monitoring, and miniature biosensors for monitoring respiratory illnesses. 

But Sharath has also become a leading voice in driving Australia’s innovation agenda, speaking at the National Press Club and heading national peak body Science & Technology Australia, where he’s been a board member since 2018.

Professor Sharath Sriram will continue to be a leading voice on Australia's innovation agenda. Professor Sharath Sriram will continue to be a leading voice on Australia's innovation agenda.

RMIT University Vice-Chancellor & President Professor Alec Cameron congratulated Sharath on behalf of the RMIT community.

“Sharath is an outstanding advocate for applied research, playing a vital role in building Australia’s innovation ecosystem,” he said. 

“Sharath’s proven ability to empower collaboration between government, industry and academia epitomises how we should work together for greatest effect. I look forward to his ongoing relationship with RMIT and to the important contribution he will make in this new role.”

Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson congratulated Sharath and thanked the outgoing Professor Peter Klinken AC for his “dedication and enduring contribution to science”.

 

Story: Michael Quin

03 June 2025

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