FIVE candidates are being considered for the top job at the region’s leading university.

Durham University is choosing from a shortlist of five names for its new vice-chancellor, Professor Chris Higgins having retired last September.

In an email to students, Robert Gillespie, chair of the university council, said there was a “very strong field of candidates” and five of “considerable academic experience” are being considered, according to the student newspaper Palatinate.

The formal selection and interview process will take place in late March. The university’s senate and council would have to approve any appointment.

It is hoped the new vice-chancellor would start work in October.