Jim Peacock

Dr Jim Peacock (or Dr William James Peacock) was appointed Australian Chief Scientist by the Liberal government in March 2006., and "is a strong advocate for the integration of science and global business." [1]

"Dr Peacock is an award winning molecular biologist and fervent science advocate. He is recognised internationally as an eminent researcher in the field of plant molecular biology and its applications in agriculture.

Dr Peacock has gained valuable experience working in industry having founded the Gene Shears biotechnology company and instituted the GrainGene initiative and the HRZ Wheat Company – linking research with the production of new wheat varieties for Australia. He played a key role in the establishment of cotton as Australia’s first highly successful biotech crop." [2]

Dr Peacock is Co-Director of the Cooperative Research Centre for Plant Science, Director of the Cotton Research & Development Corporation, Board Member of two Cooperative Research Centres and Scientific Adviser to two major Australian companies. [3]

Biotech and Genetic Engineering

"Biotechnology is like any other business system... (involving) protective intellectual property claims, through the cost of adherence to regulatory requirements … the need for effective communication… of business and extending to decision makers. It is important for our Parliamentary representatives to fully understand what is being proposed." [4]

"Australia's new Chief Scientist and longest-serving chief of the CSIRO Plant Industry division, Dr Jim Peacock, is an enthusiastic GM supporter. He told the Herald earlier this month that GM technology could play a significant role in preventive medicine. He says the various moratoriums on GM canola are unjustified." [5]

Nuclear

"Dr Jim Peacock, previously chief of CSIRO's plant division and president of the Australian Academy of Science, has long been an advocate of nuclear energy, writing a letter to Prime Minister John Howard last year in conjunection with John Zillman, president of the Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering, proposing a report about the prospects of nuclear power to promote informed public debate. ... "I think it's really time to reassess and discuss the possibility of using nuclear-based power. I've been concerned for some time in the application of the newer biotechnology techniques into agriculture. I think science education is critically important for the future of Australia," Dr Peacock said." [6]

External links

• "New chief scientist endorses nuclear energy, GM crops", Environment Business Newsletter, 16 March 2006.
• "GM: a case of good crop, bad crop", Sydney Morning Herald, 28 March 2006.
• Jim Peacock, "Tomorrow's agriculture – we need to work things out!", National Press Club Address, 27 July 2005.
• "The Chief Scientist", Government Website, Accessed August 2006.
• "William James Peacock", The University of Sydeny, Faculty of Science, Australia, last updated 18th June 2007, accessed 10th July 2007