Professor Simon Bright, Director of Warwick HRI, is to retire at Christmas after nearly six years in his current role.

Simon was previously Head of Technology Interaction at Syngenta - the world's largest agribusiness company, where he led research on the application of genomics and biotechnology to crop plants.

Professor Brian Thomas, Deputy Director of Warwick HRI, will take up the role of Acting Director of Warwick HRI from January 2010.

Presently, both Simon and Brian are fully involved in the ongoing discussions around the implementation of the School of Life Sciences and will ensure staff at Warwick HRI are kept fully updated as work progress.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nigel Thrift said: "Simon has played an integral role at Warwick HRI, and the wider University, during his six years with us - we greatly appreciate the valuable contribution he has made."

His colleagues wish him well for a happy retirement.