New CEO of CSIRO Rumoured to Have been Appointed but

has Yet to be Announced. (August 13, 2008)

Rosslyn Beeby The Canberra Times science and environment reporter breaks the news:

The new chief, rumoured to be a high-profile Australian scientist but not a CSIRO staffer, will replace Dr Geoff Garrett who retires in December after heading the organisation for eight years. There is also speculation that a woman could be appointed to the position.

     Federal Government sources told The Canberra Times the appointment had been approved by the board several weeks ago. They said Senator Carr met the new chief-designate recently, and the appointment was expected to be announced in the next two weeks.

Will the chief designate have second thoughts during the next fortnight similar to those exhibited recently by German neuroscientist Tobias Bonhoeffer who appeared to accept becoming the foundation head of Austria's fledgling Institute of Science and Technology only to withdraw on careful reflection of what he would be letting himself in for?