Prof Peter Klinken AC

Professor Klinken is one of the longest serving state chief scientists, appointed in 2014 and is Western Australia’s third Chief Scientist,  providing independent expert advice to the WA Government.

Prior to his appointment as WA Chief Scientist, Professor Klinken was a research scientist and executive director of the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. His research interests included the biology of red blood cell formation and cancer such as leukaemia.

As Chief Scientist of Western Australia, his passion is to “See the State develop into a global hub of creativity and innovation in all sectors, and to capitalise on the remarkable assets it is endowed with. I am particularly passionate about the crucial role of education for society and indigenous culture.”

Professor Klinken was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2017. He was Western Australian Citizen of the Year (Professions) in 2008, and made a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (2015) and a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (2016).

Professor Klinken has supported the Government in growing the WA science industries to achieve future prosperity for Western Australians, as well as assisted with changes to legislation. We are looking forward to welcoming Professor Klinken as a Keynote speaker at the ASC-2024 conference and learning more about his insights into science communication at the interface of science and policy.