Dr Cleugh is an atmospheric scientist, working in CSIRO until 2020. She is now an Honorary Professor at ANU, and former Vice Chair of the World Climate Research Programme. In 2017, Dr Cleugh became the inaugural Director of CSIRO's Climate Science Centre, after leading CSIRO’s climate and atmospheric research for over a decade. She built collaborations nationally, including national research infrastructure for ecosystem observations (NCRIS TERN and OzFlux) and Earth System Models (ACCESS-NRI). Her research explores the influence of land-air interactions on climate, carbon uptake and water availability – providing data, information and knowledge for resource managers, decision and policymakers.

Dr Helen Cleugh brings impact and value to the Academy through her ability to influence global programmes of importance to Australia; her commitment to work with stakeholders to translate her world-class research on land-air interactions into tangible outcomes, through trusted data, models and practical guidance, to deliver improved productivity and sustainability of Australian environments, from farms and forests to cities; and her inclusive leadership that instils confidence and trust and builds capability. Helen is a highly respected role model, nationally and globally, for her delivery of genuine impact through science and collaboration.