Cambridge professor found dead after plagiarism row

Britain’s PM Burnham calls for reflection as Jason Arday’s family alleges sustained harassment

London: Former University of Cambridge professor Jason Arday was found dead in south London on Friday, days after resigning amid plagiarism allegations and intense media scrutiny. Arday, 41, became Cambri­dge’s youngest Black professor in 2023. Police said his death was being treated as “unexpected” but not suspicious.

Arday resigned as professor of sociology of education on Aug 5 after weeks of reports alleging plagiarism in his academic work and questioning claims about his athletic and fundraising achievements. He denied plagiarism but acknowledged mistakes in his doctoral work.

PM Andy Burnham dubbed Arday’s death “a tragedy on so many levels”. “It’s not a moment for any rushing to judgment. It’s a moment for reflection,” Burnham said.

Arday’s family said he had faced a “campaign of harassment” and “sustained abuse” since joining Cambridge. A “campaign of misinformation was too much for Jason”.

Cambridge had opened a probe following new information about Arday’s qualifications and ho­norary appointments. Vice Chance­llor Debo­rah Prentice also announced a review of the university’s process for hiring senior staff. His death has sparked claims scrutiny of Arday was intensified by racism and opposition to diversity, equity and inclusion policies.