A former professor at the University of Bradford whose work helped towards better understanding of conditions such as autism and schizophrenia has died aged 67.

Prof Michael Gardner, who passed away peacefully at home, joined the university as a lecturer in medical biochemistry in 1985, having graduated from the University of Edinburgh.

He was made Reader in physiological biochemistry in 1986 and was awarded a personal chair in the subject in 1996.

Emeritus, retired, Professor Gardner was deputy head of the Department of Biomedical Sciences from 2000 until his retirement in 2005.

He was also granted the status of Emeritus following his retirement and maintained strong links with the university through membership of committees.

Professor Gardner’s main contribution was in the area of intestinal transport of solutes. A university spokesman said that through his work on amino acid and peptide transport, Professor Gardner showed that biologically-active peptides arising during digestion of dietary proteins could be absorbed intact into the bloodstream. These could then have biological and pathological consequences by interacting with nervous and immune systems.

The work helped towards better understanding of conditions including autistic spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. Professor Gardner also produced two books and more than 150 scientific publications during his academic career.

He was also involved as a Quality Assurance Agency assessor for education in England and Wales.

In his spare time, Professor Gardner was a keen fly fisherman who used his scientific skills to advance knowledge of salmon biology. He also loved the Hebridean Islands and, in retirement, published a book called The History of Finsbay Lodge, Harris: Life and Fishing on a Hebridean Isle.

His other interests included his beloved 1935 Armstrong Siddeley car, fine wines and whiskies. He also loved organ music.

Professor Gardner, who died on July 9, is survived by his wife Dr Marjorie Gardner, who continues to teach in biomedical sciences at the University of Bradford.

His funeral will be held at 1.30pm on Monday at Bradford Cathedral.