John Gunn is a marine scientist with over 35 years’ experience conducting, leading, translating and communicating science focused on conservation and sustainable use of marine ecosystems and resources.
John has had a long association with IMOS through his leadership roles over the last 15 years in the Australian marine community. John was the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Institute of Marine Science (2011-2017); the Chief Scientist of the Australian Antarctic Program/ Senior Executive in the Australian Government (2008-2011); and Deputy Chief of CSIRO’s Marine and Atmospheric Research Division (2003-2008). Over this time he served as a member of the IMOS Advisory Board for nine years.
John has led development of national and global science strategies, major research programs, science capability (people, research infrastructure and partnerships), and stakeholder engagement across research portfolios encompassing marine ecology, fisheries, coastal systems, physical and chemical oceanography, atmospheric chemistry and climate science.
John is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering, Co-Chair of the UNESCO-Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Global Ocean Observing System and a member of Australia’s National Climate Science Advisory Committee.
For over 25 years, as a trusted advisor to ministers, governments and industry, he has held high level advisory roles on the Great Barrier Reef, national and global fisheries, Antarctic research and National science and research policy.
From 2011-2016 he was Chair of the National Marine Science Committee and in that capacity was instrumental in developing the “National Marine Science Plan 2015-25: Driving the development of Australia’s blue economy.”
“It’s a pleasure to renew my relationship with IMOS, and an honour to serve as the 3rd Chair of the Advisory Board,” says Mr Gunn.
“I’d like to acknowledge the great work of Ian Poiner, Tim Moltmann, the Board and all in the IMOS community that resulted in our increased and long-term funding allocation from the NCRIS."
“This provides a platform for IMOS to consolidate the high-quality observing platforms and data streams for which we have become globally recognised. It also provides the scope for us to explore new approaches, extend our observations and data services and build enduring partnerships with those who use our data.”
"We will soon begin the search for a new Director to replace Tim as he transitions out of the role in the second half of 2019. No doubt Tim’s legacy will last a very long time – we all have much to thank him for. However, there could not be a better time for a dynamic and committed leader to take the helm and I’ll be working with UTAS and the Board over the next few months to ensure a top-class candidate is appointed."