Ashton, who took England to the World Cup final last year, turned down the chance to coach the national academy after the Rugby Football Union appointed Martin Johnson as team manager, instead opting to go into consultancy.

Ashton’s links with the area are strong, enjoying two stints at Bath Rugby during his stint as a top-flight club coach.

The 62-year-old will work with athletes and coaches at the university to develop the coaching infrastructure.

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with the University of Bath in the role of a consultant director of coaching,” said Ashton

“There are many talented high level performance coaches and athletes who operate in the university's sports training village and I am looking forward to working alongside them to ensure that all set standards that are testing and provide competition success.

“When I was the national academy manager and head coach of England rugby we used the sports training village as our base so I am well aware of the facilities and expertise that the University of Bath is able to provide across a wide range of support areas.”

Ged Roddy, director of sports development and recreation, added: “This is a significant coup for us.

“Our university sports family at Bath fielded medal winners at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games and Brian’s appointment will strengthen our elite performance line-up and create a link between research and the practical application of science to sport.”