Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) chief executive Doug Hilton has defended the timing of its latest 350 research job cuts , while batting away suggestions he subjected staff with uncertain futures to a "hunger games" process.

"We take these decisions very seriously. And my heart goes out to the staff, not just not just the ones that are impacted, but the broader CSIRO community," Dr Hilton told ABC Canberra radio on Wednesday morning.

He said announcing the cuts on Tuesday in the lead-up to Christmas was necessary as "we have to be able to act now in order to be able to meet budget for the next financial year."

"We're aware that that impacts staff in a way that's pretty difficult. But also I think the putting staff through a long period of uncertaint

See Full Page