Cambridge launches review into support for Jason Arday before death

The University of Cambridge has initiated an independent review into its decision-making and actions surrounding the death of former professor Jason Arday. The review will scrutinize the support provided to Arday during his final months at the university, as well as the broader context of his tenure at Cambridge. Arday, 41, was discovered deceased in his London residence on August 14th, just a week after resigning from his position as professor of sociology of education amid accusations of plagiarism.

He adamantly denied the allegations. Chancellor Nazir Afzal, who will lead the first part of the review, emphasized the importance of approaching the inquiry with both thoroughness and empathy, stating that difficult questions must be asked. The second phase of the review will examine the wider circumstances of Arday's time at Cambridge, including the recruitment process, mentoring arrangements, and the university's response to allegations of research misconduct.

The independent external chair leading the second phase of the review will be appointed, with an expert panel providing guidance. Prentice acknowledged that Arday's death has deeply impacted black staff, students, and the neurodiverse community, noting a surge in racist and abusive attacks on the university community. The review aims to provide recommendations for urgent action within three months of the first part's completion.