One of the world's leading theoretical physicists was today preparing to replace one of the world's best-known scientists in one of the world's most famous academic jobs, Cambridge University said.

Professor Michael Green will become the 18th Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge University on November 1.

He was elected by senior university staff after Professor Stephen Hawking decided to shed the title.

Professor Green is a professor of theoretical physics at Cambridge and the university said he was a pioneering scientist.

"Michael Green has played a leading role in theoretical physics research in the department since 1993. He is internationally known," said Peter Haynes, head of Cambridge's Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics.

"His appointment as Lucasian Professor continues the very distinguished tradition of that post."

Professor Hawking stepped down in September after holding the title for 30 years, but continues to work at the university.

Previous holders of the title, founded by MP Henry Lucas in 1663, include Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Babbage, Sir Joseph Larmor and Sir James Lighthill.