Mr Barnett, also the state’s Science Minister, said the role was key to building the state’s science industries.

“Professor Klinken brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm to the role and I very much look forward to working with him.”

A leading WA medical research scientist and visionary leader, Professor Klinken is highly regarded for advancing the understanding of genes involved in leukaemia, cancer and anaemia and his many research achievements include the discovery of a gene that suppresses the growth of tumours.

Professor Klinken played a key role in establishing the state’s premier adult medical research institute, the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, previously the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research.

Under his stewardship, the institute attracted world-class national and international researchers to the state and made many acclaimed medical discoveries.