World-renowned DNA expert Dr Linzi Wilson-Wilde to head Forensic Science South Australia

An internationally-recognised scientist has been appointed as the new director of Forensic Science South Australia.

Dr Linzi Wilson-Wilde. Picture: Paul Loughnan

One of Australia’s best-known forensic scientists has won the job as director of Forensic Science South Australia.

Currently the director of the National Institute of Forensic Science, Dr Linzi Wilson-Wilde has worked closely as a DNA specialist with the Australia Federal Police and the Victorian and NSW police over the past three decades.

She played a pivotal role in the aftermath of the 2002 Bali bombings, when she co-ordinated the DNA analysis for the identification of victims and in the criminal investigation tracking the offenders.

In 2003, Dr Wilson-Wilde was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her services in that landmark policing operation.

Dr Wilson-Wilde, who replaces Professor Chris Pearman following his retirement, said she was looking forward to her new role.

“FSSA is an internationally respected laboratory,’’ she said.

SA Attorney-General Vickie Chapman.

“It has a reputation in breaking innovative solutions and it has world-leading researchers with strong collaborative connections with academia.

“I am really looking forward to leading and building on that innovative culture and experience that is ingrained within the laboratory.’’

Attorney-General Vickie Chapman said Dr Wilson-Wilde would complement the existing expertise within FSSA.

“It speaks volumes about FSSA’s reputation, both nationally and internationally, that someone of Dr Linzi Wilson-Wilde’s stature has taken on this important leadership role,” Ms Chapman said.

“She is extraordinarily qualified.

“For the past 12 years, she has been in leading roles with Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency’s National Institute of Forensic Science, the region’s peak body for forensic science.

“She is the president of the International Forensic Strategic Alliance and on the committees of Interpol’s Forensic Science Managers Symposium, as well as the International Criminal Court’s Office of the Prosecutor Scientific Advisory Board. I could not be more pleased we have someone of her stature and expertise to lead Forensic Science SA into the future.”

Professor Chris Pearman, retiring director of Forensic Science SA holding the pyjama top worn by Louise Bell when she was abducted in 1983. Picture Matt Turner.

Ms Chapman said the appointment of a woman as the director for the first time in FSSA’s history sent a positive message to younger women working in or considering studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). “At a time when we’re looking to get more girls and women into STEM, the appointment of such a highly qualified woman to this crucial role highlights the important role women play in these fields,” Ms Chapman said.

“Gender should not be a barrier to taking on leading positions in the world of STEM, and I would hope young women look to Dr Wilson-Wilde’s appointment and consider pursuing a career in this field.”

Ms Chapman also paid tribute to Prof Chris Pearman.

“He has been an exceptional leader, cementing Forensic Science SA’s reputation as a national leader and I wish him all the best in retirement,” she said.