Head of Maths and Physical Sciences to leave Sussex
Professor Peter Coles, who is leaving the University of Sussex after three years as Head of the School of Maths and Physical Sciences (MPS), has been praised for his major contributions to the development and success of his departments and wider aspects of University life, including the establishment of a thriving staff LGBT+ Network.
Prof Peter Coles
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Michael Farthing, said: “I would like to thank Peter for his strong leadership of MPS and for his contribution to the University, which went far beyond the academic. During his time at Sussex, he attracted many distinguished researchers to the school and built on MPS' research strengths.
Through his own professional and personal style, Peter has created a fantastic learning environment for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, and I know this would have really added positively to their time at Sussex."
“Peter has been a driving force in securing major funding in areas such as quantum technology and obtaining investment from the University to develop Statistics, as well as building teams in vital areas of research, including Materials Physics,” said Professor Clare Mackie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
Through his personal astrophysics blog In the Dark, written under the anagrammatic pseudonym Telescoper, Peter Coles has shown that a light touch is an effective way to engage students and non-scientists, and he has encouraged his staff to take their expertise into the community through hosting BBC Stargazing events and participating in the Brighton Science Festival.
“Peter has been extraordinarily influential on so many levels," said Professor Mackie. “Not only has he led the school in building on its strong academic reputation, he is also a gifted science communicator who understands the societal benefits of promoting science to the wider community.
“I know that MPS enjoys an envied reputation in terms of delivering a brilliant experience for its students – and its staff, and Peter has played no small role in that. We are all very sorry to say good-bye.”
Peter is returning to Cardiff University, where he was formerly Deputy Head of School in Physics and Astronomy, to continue his research in astrophysics and cosmology in connection with the new Data Innovation Research Institute.
Professor Coles said: “I’ll miss my friends and colleagues at MPS, but feel that it’s time to move on to different challenges. The School is doing very well, with record student numbers and research income and I’m sure it will go from strength to strength after my departure. I wish everyone well for the future.”
Peter leaves at the end of July 2016.