The CSIRO's longest-serving chief executive in 50 years will step down next year.
Dr Larry Marshall has been at the helm of the national science organisation since 2015, steering it through "a period of much scientific promise amid global turbulence, particularly through the COVID pandemic", Science Minister Ed Husic said on Tuesday.
"Undoubtedly he will leave the organisation with a lasting legacy and I thank him for his dedicated service."
During the pandemic, Dr Marshall led the agency to launch the National Vaccine and Therapeutics Lab - a $23.1 million lab in Melbourne set to boost the nation's ability to produce vaccines and drug treatments onshore.
In 2020, Dr Marshall established the CSIRO's Missions program, which generated partnerships with researchers and industry on hydrogen, future protein, drought resilience, trusted agrifood exports, ending plastic waste and net zero emissions.
"CSIRO's contribution to Australia's resilience during the pandemic cannot be overstated," Mr Husic said.
"It will play a vital role in developing sovereign capability in the years to come."
Dr Marshall will lead the science agency until June.
