Glasgow University revives Greek post after £2.4m bequest

A university professorship which has been dormant for more than a decade is to be revived after a £2.4m bequest from the last person to hold the post.

Professor Douglas Maurice MacDowell held Glasgow University's Chair of Greek between 1971 and 2001.

After his death in 2010, aged 78, Prof MacDowell's will stated his portfolio of stocks and shares be used to re-establish the position.

The new Chair of Greek is expected to be in place for September this year.

'Huge influence'

Applications for the post will be advertised by the university in the spring.

Matthew Fox, professor of classics, said: "Professor MacDowell had a huge influence on the teaching and understanding of Greek during his time in the role.

"Although the study of Greek has lessened in popularity over the last 40 years or so, we've seen a renewed interest in the subject from students in the last few years and the appointment to a new chair will allow the university to strengthen its excellent reputation for Greek.

"The call for applications for the chair will go out far and wide and we're confident we'll be able to attract a candidate who will help to develop the teaching and study of Greek at the university in a manner which befits Professor MacDowell's legacy."

BBC