The University of Cambridge has pledged a thorough investigation into the controversy surrounding former professor Jason Arday.
Cambridge Vice-Chancellor Deborah Prentice described the plagiarism allegations against Arday as “an aberration” on Wednesday.
She also warned against using the case to cast doubts on other academics of colour. Her comments came amid growing scrutiny over the university’s handling of the controversy.
Arday resigned from his position as professor of sociology of education one week ago. His resignation followed allegations concerning his PhD thesis and claims about his personal achievements.
Cambridge Promises a Thorough Investigation
Prentice addressed the controversy in a letter to university staff. The letter outlined her response to what she described as a “damaging and difficult” scandal.
She promised a “thorough and transparent” investigation into Arday’s appointment and his time at Cambridge.
The investigation will examine the circumstances surrounding his appointment in 2022. It will also include academics from “beyond Cambridge”.
The university has already announced plans to review its hiring process for senior positions. The review aims to examine how the university appoints academics to such roles.
Arday Denies Any Wrongdoing
Arday has denied wrongdoing in connection with the allegations. In his resignation letter, he said he did not accept “the narratives that have surrounded me”.
Arday became Cambridge’s youngest black professor at the age of 37. He previously served as the university’s professor of sociology of education.
The allegations have continued to draw attention following his resignation. However, the university has yet to complete its investigation into the circumstances surrounding his appointment and tenure.
Pressure Mounts Over Cambridge’s Handling
Prentice, an American psychologist, serves as Cambridge’s principal administrative officer. British newspapers have reported criticism of her handling of the controversy.
Some academics have also called for an independent investigation. A group of Cambridge academics wrote to Prentice last week.
The academics criticised Arday’s appointment and urged her to establish an independent body to investigate the matter.
The controversy has also attracted attention from right-wing newspapers and commentators. Some have portrayed Arday as a “poster boy” for diversity, equality and inclusion policies.
Prentice responded by stressing that the case should not cast aspersions on other academics of colour.
Hiring Process Also Under Review
The university’s review will examine the hiring process for senior roles. At present, individual academic departments lead these reviews.
In Arday’s case, the Faculty of Education is conducting the review.
Prentice acknowledged that there is pressure for quick answers. However, she said the university needs to allow the reviews to finish properly.
“The desire for quick answers and rapid responses is understandable, but we need to allow these reviews to complete their work effectively so we can learn from any mistakes,” she said.
The investigation will therefore focus on the circumstances surrounding Arday’s appointment and his time at Cambridge. Meanwhile, the university has indicated that the findings could inform changes to its senior hiring procedures.
