Black Cambridge professor accused of plagiarism found dead : NPR

LONDON — British sociologist Jason Arday, who recently resigned from his position at the University of Cambridge, was discovered dead on Friday. His departure followed weeks of public scrutiny and accusations of plagiarism.

Arday, who became Cambridge’s youngest Black professor at the age of 37 in 2023, stepped down amid pressure over allegations of plagiarism in his academic work and questions about his athletic and fundraising claims.

The Times and Telegraph newspapers, along with the BBC and Sky News, reported that the 41-year-old was found “unresponsive” in a home in Battersea, South London, on Friday afternoon.

His death coincides with the release of his memoir, “Great and Unfortunate Things,” a book published by Simon & Schuster despite controversies regarding his credibility. In a statement from his publisher, his family expressed their shock and grief over the loss of “this amazing father, partner, brother, uncle, and son.”

“The misinformation campaign was too much for Jason, who was always gentle and saw the best in people,” the family stated, mentioning a three-year period of sustained abuse aimed at undermining him.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a 41-year-old man was declared dead at the scene in Battersea, but did not identify him, following their policy. “His death is considered unexpected but not suspicious,” they stated.

Cambridge Vice-chancellor Deborah Prentice, who had earlier announced an investigation into Arday’s employment, expressed her sadness at the news. “Our deepest condolences go to Jason Arday’s family and friends during this difficult period,” she stated.

In his resignation letter, Arday mentioned that “the relentless accusations, speculation, and public commentary have profoundly affected me and my loved ones.”

He clarified that his resignation was not an admission of the allegations against him and denied plagiarism, although he acknowledged some mistakes during his doctoral studies.

Supporters, including academics and politicians, described the plagiarism claims as a “smear campaign” against Arday and other Black individuals in influential roles.

Arday’s appointment at Cambridge was notable for his personal journey overcoming dyslexia, developmental delays, and autism, which left him non-verbal until age 11 and illiterate until his late teens.

Cambridge has opened investigation into plagiarism accusations

In his memoir, Arday portrayed himself as someone destined both for achievement and struggle. He recounted a family story that the song “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” played at his birth and a midwife’s comment about his long fingers foreshadowing greatness. He also recalled a relief mission in Brazil during his early twenties, where an aid worker predicted his extraordinary life but warned of future difficulties.

Concerns about Arday’s qualifications emerged publicly when Nathan Cofnas, a former Cambridge philosophy researcher, questioned them. His doctoral thesis was analyzed by the Times of London, which claimed it contained passages identical or nearly identical to another researcher’s work.

British media also questioned Arday’s claims of raising 5.5 million pounds ($7.4 million) for charity through feats like running 30 marathons in 35 days and covering 600 miles in six days.

Several Cambridge academics signed a letter advocating for an independent inquiry into Arday’s appointment. Initially, Cambridge supported Arday, stating that plagiarism allegations had been investigated by Liverpool John Moores University, which awarded his doctorate.

However, the university later announced an investigation following new information about Arday’s qualifications and honorary roles.

Vice-chancellor Prentice emphasized this week that Cambridge will review its hiring processes. She affirmed that “our staff of color are highly valued for their scholarship, achievements, and contributions to the institution and academic community.” She noted that this case is an exception and should not be used to question the legitimacy of their roles at Cambridge.