The NSW Government is on the lookout for a Chief Scientist and Scientific Engineer to provide strategic advice on scientific research and development in the state.

The NSW Minister for Science and Medical Research, Verity Firth, said the role would be a dual one, involving fostering the quality and level of scientific activity in NSW and to help target R&D capabilities.

The role will be part-time - approximately three days a week, supplied with a secretariat - and the candidate is expected to continue with his or her research or business interests.

A spokesman for the minister said discussions would be carried out with universities and research institutes over the next few weeks to target suitable candidates, with a nominee put forward within two months.

There will be a definite emphasis on applied science or experience in commercialisation, as reflected in the job title, the spokesperson said.

The government will also fund a chair in engineering innovation at the Warren Centre of Advanced Engineering at the University of Sydney, to the tune of $250,000.