AN accomplished professor is to take up the post of Head of the institute of science and the environment at the University of Worcester.

John Newbury, who is currently deputy head of the School of Bioscience at Birmingham University, will come to Worcester in October. He will also take up the post of professor of bioscience.

Mr Newbury brings with him a strong reputation for teaching and research, having published almost 100 scientific papers to date.

His specialisms include plant genetics. He is currently actively involved in preparations to celebrate the Year of Darwin in 2009, which will commemorate 150 years since the publication of Charles Darwin’s On The Origin Of Species.

Prof David Green, vice-chancellor of the University of Worcester, has said he is looking forward to working with Mr Newbury and to achieving “exciting future goals” for the university.

The current head of science and environment, Dr John Fagg, will become a senior fellow of the university, as well as taking on an advisory role within the institution.