John Gunn is a marine scientist with over 35 years of experience conducting, leading, translating and communicating science that is focussed on conservation and sustainable use of marine ecosystems and resources.

For the last 15 years, as Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Institute of Marine Science (2011-2017); Chief Scientist of the Australian Antarctic Program and Senior Executive in the Australian Government (2008-2011); and Deputy Chief of CSIRO's Marine and Atmospheric Research Division (2003-3008) he has lead development of national and global science strategies, major research programs, science capability (people, research infrastructure and partnerships), and stakeholder engagement across research portfolios encompassing marine ecology, fisheries, coastal systems, physical and chemical oceanography, atmospheric chemistry and climate science.

John is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering, Co-Chair of the UNESCO-Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Global Ocean Observing System and a member of Australia's National Climate Science Advisory Committee. For over 25 years, as a trusted advisor to ministers, governments and industry, has held high level advisory roles on the Great Barrier Reef, national and global fisheries, Antarctic research and science and research policy. 

Prior to his move into executive roles, his science focus was on the spatial dynamics and stock structure of large pelagic fishes (tunas, billfishes and sharks) and the development of new electronic tagging technologies and he continues to contribute to collaborations in these fields.  

John is a passionate advocate for marine science and its role in providing solutions to the large number of global challenges facing our oceans. He is an active mentor of junior scientists and future science leaders, and in his spare time is a keen diver, fisher and bush walker