The University of Cambridge is facing scrutiny over its academic standards and diversity initiatives after its youngest black professor, Jason Arday, resigned. His resignation follows allegations that he copied other academics' research.
Cambridge confirmed it has initiated an investigation after "new information" emerged regarding Professor Arday's academic qualifications and honorary appointments. Professor Arday denies the accusations of academic plagiarism.
Professor Arday's appointment in 2023 was previously described as a progressive moment for the university. The allegations of plagiarism are considered a serious matter within academia, as universities define plagiarism as "passing off someone else's work as if it were your own without appropriate acknowledgement."
Professor Arday holds a degree from the University of Surrey, a master's from St Mary's University, and a PhD in education from Liverpool John Moores University. He previously held positions at Durham University and the University of Glasgow.