Gene Block is to step down after 17 years as chancellor of the University of California, Los Angeles.

Professor Block said that he would step down next July and take up a post on UCLA¡¯s faculty, researching biological timing.

¡°This decision was by no means an easy one,¡± he writes in a message to the campus community. ¡°But I have the greatest confidence in UCLA¡¯s future, and I feel that the time is right ¨C for me, for my family and for our campus.¡±

Prior to joining UCLA in 2007, Professor Block spent nearly three decades at the University of Virginia, including five as vice-president.

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UCLA said that his achievements included making the institution the most-applied-to four-year university in the US and increasing student enrolment by 24 per cent. During his tenure annual research funding has increased by 88 per cent, to $1.7 billion (?1.3 billion), while fundraising has totalled $9.4 billion.

¡°For nearly two decades, Chancellor Block has helped UCLA grow into a powerhouse of excellence, opportunity and access. He has been a dear friend and a dedicated partner in tackling many of the university¡¯s challenges,¡± said University of California system president Michael Drake.

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¡°Chancellor Block¡¯s efforts to forge new community partnerships, enhance the student experience and grow the research enterprise will benefit UCLA and the state of California for years to come.¡±

chris.havergal@timeshighereducation.com