Prof Peter Coles, a crossword enthusiast, cuts into a crossword cake to mark his arrival at Sussex as Head of MPS.

Colleagues from MPS welcome Prof Peter Coles to the University.

A new head of school has taken up his appointment at Sussex.

On 1 February, Professor Peter Coles joined the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS) as its new head – and was welcomed by his new colleagues with an afternoon of tea and cake.

He has moved from Cardiff University, where he had been Professor of Theoretical Astrophysics since 2007 and was also Deputy Head of School in Physics and Astronomy.

Professor Coles is no stranger to Sussex, as he did his graduate studies under the supervision of Professor John Barrow, obtaining his DPhil in 1988 and then staying on for two more years as a post-doctoral research assistant.

A prolific blogger, Professor Coles wrote after the announcement of his appointment: “I felt the position at Sussex represented an exciting opportunity to make a fresh start which would offer new and exciting challenges.”

He added: “The position of Head of MPS at Sussex only became available because of the untimely death of the previous Head of School, David Axon, in April this year, so I’m fully aware that the circumstances that have given me such a wonderful opportunity have also brought much sadness to David’s colleagues and loved ones.

“I only hope that I can build on the many excellent things he did during his time at Sussex, and so eventually earn the respect and acceptance of the School.”

The University has 12 schools (including the Brighton and Sussex Medical School) in total and, as a member of the leadership team, each head of school sits on the Senior Management Group.

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