Emeritus Professor Helen Garnett was appointed to the ANSTO board on Thursday April 16 by the Minister for Industry and Innovation, and Science, Minister Tim Ayres.
Professor Garnett served as ANSTO’s Executive Director from 1993 to 2003 and played a critical role in the planning and construction of OPAL, ANSTO’s multipurpose reactor.
ANSTO Chairperson, Mr Michael Quigley welcomed the appointment. “We’re delighted. Professor Garnett brings exceptional scientific leadership and deep experience in research, higher education, government and industry,” said Mr Quigley.
“She also has a unique understanding of ANSTO’s national capabilities, including the world-class facilities that underpin Australia’s nuclear medicines and neutron science programs.”
Minister Ayres said the appointment would strengthen ANSTO’s governance and support Australia’s research system as it responds to urgent national challenges, including critical minerals processing and life-saving nuclear medicines development.
“Scientific and industrial research are crucial for making Australia stronger, and leadership and governance are fundamental to ensuring our independent public science agencies stay strong, fit for purpose and focussed on Australia’s national science priorities,” said Minister Ayres.
As a distinguished microbiologist and former senior academic Professor Garnett has held professor and head of department roles at the University of Wollongong (UOW) and the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa). She was the inaugural Vice‑Chancellor of Charles Darwin University (CDU) and is now an Emeritus Professor at UOW and CDU.
Professor Garnett was awarded the Centenary Medal (2003) for contributions to nuclear science and technology and the Public Service Medal (2004) for her leadership of ANSTO. She is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (FAICD) and of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering.