World-renowned physicist Dr Cathy Foley has been named CSIRO Chief Scientist with a brief to help champion science, its impact and contribution to the world. Dr Foley is best known for her work developing superconducting devices and systems that have assisted in unearthing over $6 billion in minerals worldwide.

Dr Foley says her priority will be promoting science, STEM and women in science when she takes up the role at the end of September.

“Australia’s future prosperity will be fuelled by science,” she says. “Science which creates new industries, new jobs and shapes the minds and aspirations of our future leaders.”

“We can’t keep thinking about science as something which is locked away in a lab. It connects and drives everything we touch and do.

“I’m looking forward to not just spreading the word, but helping shape the science agenda and raising the profile of the role of women in STEM.”

Dr Foley is currently the Deputy Director and Science Director of CSIRO’s manufacturing business unit. She has been an advocate for women in science, for the communication of science and science education over the past 30 years.

Dr Foley was awarded a Public Service Medal on Australia Day in 2003. In the same year, she won the Eureka Prize for the promotion of science.