The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is the national government body for scientific research in Australia. It was founded in 1916 originally as the Advisory Council of Science and Industry.
The CSIRO has around 60 sites across Australia and internationally and has over 6000 staff. The mission of the CSIRO is to provide new ways to improve the quality of life, as well as the economic and social performance of a number of industry sectors through research and development including: Agribusiness, Energy and Transport, Environment and Natural Resources, Information, Communication and Services, Manufacturing, Mineral Resources and Health.
Research highlights include the invention of Atomic absorption spectroscopy, development of the first polymer banknote, invention of the insect repellant in Aerogard, and the successful introduction of a series of biological controls into Australia, such as the introduction of Myxomatosis and Rabbit calicivirus for control of rabbit populations.
Previous names:
- 1916-1920 : Advisory Council of Science and Industry
- 1920-1926 : Commonwealth Institute of Science and Industry
- 1926-1949 : Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
- 1949-1986 : Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO)
- 1986-present : Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)
Dr Geoff Garrett was appointed CSIRO Chief Executive in January 2001.
Previous Chief Executives (incomplete):
- Keith Boardman: 5/12/1986 - 4/3/1990
- John Stocker: 5/3/1990 - 4/3/1995
- Roy Green: 5/3/1995 - 4/2/1996
- Malcolm McIntosh 3/1/1996 - 7/2/2000
- Colin Adam: 7/2/2000 - 14/2001
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