Why was Nathan Cofnas suspended? Ghent University investigates academic over Jason Arday claims

Ghent University has suspended American academic Nathan Cofnas while conducting a preliminary disciplinary investigation into his public statements regarding late Cambridge professor Jason Arday. Cofnas, a postdoctoral researcher at Ghent, announced his suspension on August 20 and stated he was under investigation for allegedly discriminating against Arday.

The university has not disclosed the specific statements that triggered the investigation or made any determination that Cofnas committed discrimination or other misconduct. The investigation stems from Cofnas' public criticism of Arday and allegations of alleged plagiarism involving Arday's academic work. Cofnas claimed a source at Cambridge contacted him about the issue, which he subsequently published. Arday denied the plagiarism allegation but acknowledged making mistakes.