The name of Professor Stephen Hawking’s successor as Lucasian Professor of Mathematics was announced on Tuesday. The post will be taken up by Professor Michael Green, who is currently John Humphrey Plummer Professor of Theoretical Physics. Green will take up his new role officially on November 1st 2009.

Green, 63, is best known for his extensive work relating to string-theory. Green was a pioneer in the theory’s early days in the 1970s, and has continued working on the subject until today, when it stands as a widely known, but little understood, model of theoretical physics which aims to explain space and time through ten dimensions of vibrating ‘strings’ of energy.

Among other things, Green is also known for his work with John Schwarz of the California Institute of Technology. Together, the two discovered ‘anomaly cancellation’ in 1984. It was from this that other scientists took an interest in string theory and developed the concept with extensive research.

Peter Haynes, head of the Cambridge Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, commented, "Michael Green has played a leading role in theoretical physics research in the Department since 1993. He is internationally known as a pioneer in string theory which over the last 20 years has become one of the most important and active areas of theoretical physics."

In reference to Green’s current work, Haynes stated, "In DAMTP [the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics] Michael Green continues to make important advances in this topic and at the same time to support and inspire young researchers. His appointment as Lucasian Professor continues the very distinguished tradition of that post."

Hawking, 67, stepped down from the post on September 30th, after holding the title for 30 years. University statutes dictate 67 as the age of retirement across all Departments. Hawking will now work as a director of research in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics.

The Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics, established in 1663, is one of the world’s most prestigious academic posts. The first Lucasian Professor was Isaac Barrow, who discovered the fundamental theorem of calculus. Other past Professors include Sir Isaac Newton (1669-1702), Charles Babbage (1828-1839), Paul Dirac (1932-1969), and Sir Michael James Lighthill (1969-1979).