UK opens inquest into death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday amid DEI, plagiarism controversy

LONDON, August 27 — The inquest into the death of former Cambridge University academic Jason Arday has begun in London, following his discovery dead in his south London home on August 14. Arday, who was 41, was the youngest-ever black professor appointed at the university in 2023. His resignation followed investigations by both Cambridge University and Jesus College into allegations of plagiarism in his doctoral thesis and exaggerated personal claims.

Arday denied these accusations but was the subject of extensive media scrutiny and accusations from some British media outlets and right-wing commentators that he had unfairly benefited from diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) policies. In a letter announcing his resignation on August 5, Arday stated that leaving was the only way to end a "difficult period," but insisted it should not be seen as acceptance of the narratives surrounding him.

The coroner, Julian Morris, confirmed that there were no signs of foul play at the scene, and the death was being treated as unexpected and not suspicious. The coroner, who determines the cause and manner of death, is awaiting further reports and has not set a date for the next hearing. The inquest, held at a London coroner's court and livestreamed by Arday's family, lasted less than five minutes.