Ex-Cambridge professor at centre of plagiarism scandal found dead

Jason Arday, a Black academic who recently resigned from the University of Cambridge following a plagiarism scandal, was found dead on Friday. The university confirmed the tragic news, with Vice Chancellor Deborah Prentice expressing deep sadness.

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We are desperately saddened to hear this tragic news.

Arday, 41, was discovered unresponsive at a south London address. The Metropolitan Police Service stated that the death is being treated as unexpected but not suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the coroner. His family attributed his death to a "campaign of harassment" and "misinformation" that followed allegations about his academic work and personal life, describing him as a "gentle man."

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The campaign of misinformation was too much for Jason, who was a gentle man and who always wanted to see the best in everyone.

The scandal erupted after accusations surfaced that Arday, who became Cambridge's youngest Black professor in 2023, had plagiarized parts of his doctoral thesis. These allegations were amplified by right-wing British media and commentators, who suggested he benefited from diversity initiatives. Arday announced his resignation from his professorship and fellowship on August 5, stating it was the "only way" to end a "difficult period" but insisted it was not an admission of guilt.

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the only way

British Education Secretary Lucy Powell conveyed her shock and sadness, urging respect for the family's privacy. The controversy intensified after US academic Nathan Cofnas published claims about Arday's work, alleging copied sections in his dissertation. Major newspapers like The Times and The Telegraph also published investigative articles on the matter.

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mistaken for an acceptance of the narratives that have surrounded me