Jul 19 2005
An internationally recognised expert in textile management, research and commercialisation, Dr Nigel Johnson, has been appointed as the new Chief of Australia's CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology (CTFT).
Dr Johnson joins CSIRO after a distinguished career with the Canesis Network in New Zealand as Deputy CEO and General Manager of the Textiles Division.
After graduating in Textile Physics from the University of New South Wales, Dr Johnson completed his PhD in spinning research at the University of Leeds, UK.
Initially employed at Ilkley, UK, as a Development Officer for the International Wool Secretariat, he returned to Sydney as a lecturer in textile technology at the University of NSW before joining the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand (WRONZ).
He took progressively senior roles at WRONZ during its development from a New Zealand-based Incorporated Society to the private entity Canesis Network that now has operations in Australasia, Europe, USA and China.
“The world of fibres and textiles is entering a dynamic new era, offering enhanced performance in traditional uses, and finding new applications as advanced flexible materials in many sectors,” Dr Johnson said.
“I am looking forward to combining the specialist textile and emerging science skills of the staff at the Division with the wider scientific knowledge of CSIRO to generate new and promising outcomes for Australia's fibre, textile and end-user industries.
“I have been impressed by the technologies and innovations that have emerged from the Division in recent times. My challenge is to use this scientific potential in CSIRO to create outcomes that exploit and add value to Australia's natural advantages and existing infrastructure.”
Dr Johnson will take up his appointment at CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology on 2 November 2005.
Dr Johnson replaces Dr Brett Bateup, who has taken up the position of CSIRO State Relationships Manager for Victoria. CSIRO's Group Executive, Agribusiness and Health, Dr Michael Eyles, says Dr Bateup made an invaluable contribution to the work of the Division during his eight-year tenure as Chief.
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