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Resignation After New Probe
Professor Jason Arday resigned from his post as professor of sociology at the University of Cambridge after the university opened an investigation following “new information” about his “academic qualifications and honorary appointments.”
“following weeks of allegations about plagiarism in his academic work”
Arday, who became the youngest Black professor in Cambridge’s history when he was appointed in 2023, said in a statement distributed by the Good Law Project that “The relentless accusations, speculation and public commentary have taken a profound toll on me and on those I love.”
Cambridge said it would not comment further until the investigation concluded, while the university said it had begun the inquiry in order to ensure a fair process.
The resignation came after weeks of media reports alleging plagiarism in Arday’s PhD thesis and questions about his athletic and fundraising accomplishments, including claims about running 30 marathons in 35 days and raising 5.5 million pounds ($7.4 million) for charity.
Denials, Mistakes, and Claims
Arday denied plagiarism while acknowledging some mistakes, telling The Times in an interview that “I am not a liar.”
In his resignation statement, Arday framed the decision as a way to end the chapter, writing, “The only way to close this chapter is to step aside.”
The BBC described Arday’s resignation as “with immediate effect,” and said he admitted making mistakes in his work but argued he faced “an unrelenting level of public scrutiny and personal attacks.”
The allegations were first raised by Nathan Cofnas, a Cambridge research affiliate whose tenure ended in 2024 amid racism accusations, and who is described as a self-defined “race realist” in the coverage.
What Happens Next
Cambridge said the misconduct review into Arday’s journal publications was being handled separately “in line with our Misconduct in Research policy,” while the new investigation focused on qualifications and honorary appointments.
“in line with our Misconduct in Research policy”
The BBC reported that Liverpool John Moores University, which awarded Arday’s doctorate in 2015, ultimately determined the alleged plagiarism was the result of “honest and reasonable error,” a finding Arday pointed to as vindication.
Questions also continued around the release of Arday’s memoir, “Great and Unfortunate Things,” with Al Jazeera noting Simon & Schuster was planning to publish it later this month.
Arday said he needed “time to heal” and that “I will return,” while the university and Jesus College said they would take their own steps in relation to some of the matters.
