Chief Defence Scientist Dr Alex Zelinsky announced to DST staff today that he will be leaving Defence in November to take up the role of Vice-Chancellor, University of Newcastle.

"It has been a privilege to serve the Department of Defence and Australia, without a doubt the job of Chief Defence Scientist has been the best of my career" he said.

"Thank you to everyone for your generous support. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in DST working with each of you. After nearly seven years in the role, I believe it is the right time for Defence to have me move on to another challenge."

We wish Dr Zelinsky every success as he puts his final touches on the transformation he has brought to DST during his tenure and its strategy for the future, and also in his forthcoming role at the University of Newcastle.