Renowned Australian scientist and climate expert Tim Flannery has been appointed to a new climate change role at the Australian Museum in a major coup for the institution.

Professor Flannery, the 2007 Australian of the Year, will have dual roles in climate research and public education as the museum's distinguished visiting fellow.

Tim Flannery returns to Sydney to take up a new climate role at the Australian Museum. Credit:Jessica Hromas

The 12-month position, funded by private donors to the museum, will give Professor Flannery a public platform to speak on climate and energy policy at a crucial time in the lead up to the state and federal elections.

“Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our time, affecting all life on the planet, and Australia is poorly prepared for the massive transition that is about to happen,” Professor Flannery said.