Cambridge professor at centre of plagiarism row resigns

What the report says

A University of Cambridge professor at the centre of allegations about plagiarism and disputed academic claims has resigned with immediate effect, according to the BBC and comments published by the Good Law Project. The university said it opened an investigation into Professor Jason Arday after receiving new information about his academic qualifications and honorary appointments. It also said separate complaints about possible research misconduct were still being handled under its own policy.

Arday, who became Cambridge’s youngest Black professor in 2023, said he had made mistakes in his work but rejected being called a liar. He said the pressure surrounding the case had become too heavy for him and his family, and that stepping away was the only way to bring the matter to a close. In his statement, he said the decision was not a rejection of scholarship or the university’s values, and that he hoped to return to work in the future.

The row follows media reports and online allegations questioning parts of Arday’s CV, including claims about plagiarism in his PhD thesis and descriptions of major charity running achievements. Arday has said some details were misstated or needed context, while maintaining that he stands by other claims. Cambridge had earlier described the accusations as a campaign to damage his reputation.

The university said it would ensure the process is thorough and compliant with policy and employment law. Jesus College, where Arday is a fellow, said it was starting a parallel process. The case has drawn wider attention because it touches on academic integrity, public reputation and the scrutiny facing high-profile figures in higher education.