The University of Edinburgh has appointed a new principal and vice-chancellor.

Professor Peter Mathieson, 57, currently president and vice-chancellor at the University of Hong Kong, is set to take up the role after almost three years at the Asian institution.

Mr Mathieson will replace Sir Timothy O'Shea, who announced his intention to leave office at the end of September 2017 after 15 years in the role.

Mr Mathieson has a background in medical research and teaching, specialising in renal medicine, and before moving to Hong Kong he was the dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Bristol for six years.

He said he is "absolutely delighted" to be taking up the position at Scotland's top-ranking university.

He added: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the University of Hong Kong and I now look forward to leading the University of Edinburgh forward into its next chapter.

"Like Hong Kong, Edinburgh is a truly global institution with a great reputation for excellence in teaching and research.

"Working together with students, staff and supporters, I am confident we can build on that reputation in the future - during what are exciting and challenging times in the world of higher education."

Anne Richards, vice-convener at Edinburgh University, said: "We saw a number of candidates of a very high calibre for this post and are extremely pleased to have recruited Professor Mathieson as Edinburgh's next principal and vice-chancellor.

"He has a wealth of experience at a senior level in higher education and we're particularly pleased to have attracted a candidate from a highly prestigious institution such as the University of Hong Kong.

"He has a very strong legacy on which to build and we have every confidence that he is the person to lead the University of Edinburgh into an exciting new era."

Sir Timothy will remain in office until Mr Mathieson's start date, which will be confirmed in due course.