The University of the South Pacific has a new Pro Vice Chancellor for research and international.

He is Professor John Bythell who was the Director of Research in the School of Biology at Newcastle.

Professor Bythell specialises in coral reef biology and has he led the Coral Health and Disease Laboratory.

In a statement on his appointment, Professor Bythell expressed enthusiasm for his new position.

Professor Bythell says he is looking forward to work with USP.