The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) has appointed a woman to the role of chief scientist for the first time.

Dr Gwen Fenton has been acting in the role since August and replaces Dr Nick Gales who was recently appointed director of the AAD.

Dr Fenton said she was honoured to be offered the position.

"There are lots of women doing science, doing a great job in science and they have been for a long time," she said.

She said it was an exciting time for the Australian Antarctic Science Program.

A new ship to replace the ageing icebreaker Aurora Australis is expected in four years and the AAD has completed trials of bulk air cargo flights to Antarctica.

"So I think that is a very good time for thinking about different ways we'll be able to do the science and the types of science we can now consider undertaking," she said.

"Certainly the new ship will present a lot of opportunity for us, we'll be able to do many different things we've been unable to do before."

Dr Fenton has worked at the AAD since 2003 planning and coordinating science projects.

She spent seven years with the Tasmanian Government managing the state's marine environmental policy issues.

Dr Fenton has a PhD in marine zoology from the University of Tasmania.

The new chief scientist is perhaps best known for research which led to determine that the fish, orange roughy, live to over 100 years old.

Dr Gales said Dr Fenton would bring a depth of experience to the role.

"I have no doubt that Gwen will be an outstanding chief scientist," he said.

"Her depth of knowledge of Antarctic science, excellent judgement, positive people skills and passion for the role will ensure that," he said.