The Natural History Museum (NHM) in London has appointed Dr Richard Lane as its new director of science.

Dr Lane will replace Professor Paul Henderson, who is retiring from the museum on 1 July after 26 years of service.Speaking about his return to the museum, Dr Lane said: 'I am particularly looking forward to developing the strategic direction of science at this world-class institution as it goes into an exciting future.'

Dr Lane takes over as the NHM develops phase two of the Darwin Centre, which aims to show the public the scope of the museum's collections and scientific work. It is due to debut in 2007.Dr Lane first worked at the NHM in the entomology department (1968-1985), and then as keeper of entomology from 1992-1997. He joins the museum from the Wellcome Trust, where he was head of international programmes.