Mumbai, June 21 (IANS): Research scientist Sanjay Vasant Deshmukh has been appointed the new vice chancellor of the University of Mumbai, the authorities said here on Saturday.

Deshmukh (50), presently a professor of life sciences in the university, will hold the post for a five-year term starting July 7. He was appointed by Maharashtra Governor C.V. Rao.

He succeeds Rajan Welukar, whose tenure ending July 6 was marked by controversies.

Deshmukh obtained his MSc from the Institute of Science in 1986 and then completed his doctorate in botany in 1990.

He served as scientist and head, Coastal Systems Research Programme at the M.S. Swaminathan Research Centre in Chennai during 1990-1995, and later joined as principal scientist at the Bombay Natural History Society.

Later, he served as programmes director at Manava Sadhan Vikas Sanstha till 2001 and director (research) at the Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini in Vasai on the outskirts of Mumbai, which was nurtured and built by Bharatiya Janata Party vice president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe for nearly a quarter of a century.

Deshmukh joined the University of Mumbai as professor in the department of life sciences in January 2005 and is experienced in development and planning besides negotiations and execution of research and development projects.

A search committee appointed by the governor, headed by retired Justice B.N. Shrikrishna had finalised a panel of names for the top post.

Governor Rao interviewed the candidates and later announced Deshmukh's appointment.