University of Cambridge professor Jason Arday has resigned "with immediate effect" following an investigation into his academic qualifications and honorary appointments. The university confirmed it had launched an inquiry after "new information" emerged.
Arday, who in 2023 became one of the youngest Black professors at Cambridge at age 37, stated in a release posted by the Good Law Project that he had "concluded that the only way to bring this chapter to an end is to step away." He cited an "unrelenting level of public scrutiny and personal attack" that had taken a significant personal toll.
Accusations of plagiarism were initially raised by academic Nathan Cofnas, who was previously dismissed from a Cambridge role. Cofnas claimed that plagiarism detection software found numerous instances of plagiarism in Arday's work, with passages allegedly lifted with minimal changes. Cofnas is known for his controversial views on race and meritocracy.
In response to earlier reports, Arday admitted to errors in his work but denied being "a liar." He suggested that a "well orchestrated and co-ordinated campaign to unseat me" was underway, which he believed was "racially motivated." Arday also stated that some of the errors in his early academic work were linked to his autism, explaining that he used mimicry to process information.
Cambridge University stated that its investigation would be thorough and adhere to university policies and employment law. Jesus College, where Arday is also a fellow, has initiated its own parallel investigation process.
Arday expressed gratitude to his students and colleagues, emphasizing that his resignation was for his "own wellbeing, for my family, and for those who have stood by me." He also indicated that this was not the end of his academic pursuits, stating, "this is not the end of my work" and that he would "return" after taking time to heal.