Branwen Jeffreys

Cambridge chancellor Lord Chris Smith has condemned the “racist feeding frenzy” surrounding Jason Arday, while maintaining that allegations of plagiarism should be rigorously investigated. Arday, who became Cambridge’s youngest Black professor in 2023, resigned on 5 August and was later found dead in south London. Cambridge has launched an independent investigation into his appointment, despite Liverpool John Moores University concluding that he had not plagiarized. Politicians, campaigners and the NHS Confederation have called for scrutiny of the media’s role and possibly a public inquiry, while officials say established processes, including an inquest, should be allowed to conclude.

Cambridge chancellor Lord Chris Smith has condemned what he called a “racist feeding frenzy” surrounding sociology professor Jason Arday, who died after resigning amid plagiarism allegations. Smith said academic integrity should be investigated rigorously without endorsing racist harassment. A vigil in London and a petition backed by more than 90,000 people have called for scrutiny of the media coverage, while politicians and NHS Confederation chair Victor Adebowale criticised the press and questioned institutional duty of care. Liverpool John Moores University previously found that Arday had not plagiarised, but Cambridge has launched an independent investigation into his appointment. A coroner is investigating the cause of death and will decide whether an inquest is needed.

Jason Arday, Cambridge’s youngest Black professor, has resigned amid allegations that he copied other academics’ research and questions about his qualifications and honorary appointments. Arday admits errors but denies plagiarism and says he has faced relentless personal attacks. Cambridge has launched an investigation, prompting scrutiny of whether it adequately vetted his credentials and whether its commitment to diversity influenced its appointment and public defense of him. The case risks damaging the university’s academic reputation while also highlighting the severe underrepresentation of Black professors in UK higher education and the need to preserve fair due process.