Christopher Smith, vice-principal of the University of St Andrews, has been appointed as the new director of the British School at Rome (BSR). A professor of ancient history with a special interest in the social and economic development of early Rome and Latium, he will take up the post on 1 October. He will replace Professor Andrew Wallace-Hadrill, who is leaving the BSR after nearly 15 years to take up the position as master of Sidney Sussex College at the University of Cambridge.

The BSR was established in 1901 in Valle Giulia in Rome as a centre for research in archaeology and Italian studies before being expanded to include art history, history and the fine arts. It provides residential fellowships to scholars and artists each year as well as supporting research programmes and archaeological projects and hosting a series of lectures and exhibitions. For more information see www.bsr.ac.uk.