Stephen Hawking steps down as Lucasian Professor

Discover Magazine reported that Stephen Hawking has stepped down as Cambridge's Lucasian Professor of Mathematics. His decision to step down had nothing to do with his health. Rather, it has been a long standing tradition that individuals who hold the distinction of being the Lucasian Chair of Mathematics must retire once he or she reaches the age of 67. Stephen Hawking turned 67 last January 8 and is now Emeritus Lucasian Professor of Mathematics. He is succeeded by Professor Michael Green.

The post Professorship of Mathematick was founded in 1663 by Henry Lucas, a member of Cambridge University's Member of Parliament from 1639–1640. The professorship was officially established by King Charles II in 1664. Sir Isaac Newton, the second Lucasian Professor, held the position from 1669 to 1701.