Geoscience Australia welcomes new Chief Scientist

9 August 2018

Geoscience Australia is pleased to announce Dr Steven Hill as the new Chief Scientist of Geoscience Australia.

Dr Hill brings extensive knowledge and experience to the position, having been involved in the geoscience sector for more than 25 years.

Since 2013, Dr Hill has worked closely with Geoscience Australia in his role as Chief Government Geologist and Director of the Geological Survey of South Australia. He also has experience working across government as a member of the COAG Energy Council's Geoscience Working Group, and with international partners, maintaining geoscience Memorandums of Understanding in China, Canada and Chile.

Geoscience Australia's Chief Executive Officer, Dr James Johnson, said Dr Hill is a welcome addition to the organisation's executive leadership group.

"Dr Hill's in-depth knowledge and experience naturally aligns with the Chief Scientist's role to provide strategic leadership and scientific direction to Geoscience Australia," he said.

"I'm confident Dr Hill will guide our science into the future and increase our engagement with stakeholders and the broader community.

"Dr Hill has overseen and coordinated the Geological Survey of South Australia's work program, including the acquisition and delivery of pre-competitive geoscience data, and provision of advice to Government.

"He also brings a keen insight and enthusiasm which will be a great asset for Geoscience Australia, and will further enhance our reputation for delivering high quality scientific advice to government."

In accepting the role, Dr Hill said he looked forward to the opportunity to take his South Australian experience to a national level.

"I have enjoyed the challenges and rewards of leading innovative applied science programs in South Australia, and I relish the opportunity to apply these skills in broader geoscience domains and on the national canvas."

Dr Hill completed a Bachelor of Science (Hons) at the University of Melbourne and a PhD at the Australian National University. He then spent nearly 20 years as a lecturer at the University of Adelaide and the University of Canberra.