Ghent University suspends Nathan Cofnas over Arday plagiarism scandal
Race realist researcher suspended after accusations linked to Cambridge professor's death
Ghent University in Belgium has suspended Nathan Cofnas, the US academic who spearheaded plagiarism accusations against Jason Arday, the former Cambridge professor found dead last week at age 41. Cofnas, a self-described 'race realist' and former Cambridge research fellow, announced his suspension on social media, saying 'They will almost certainly fire me.' The university issued a statement confirming a preliminary disciplinary investigation into a postdoctoral researcher involved in the furore, without naming him, and said his suspension was a precautionary measure.
Arday became Cambridge's youngest-ever black professor when appointed in 2023. He resigned amid mounting allegations that he had plagiarised parts of his doctoral thesis and exaggerated personal achievements. His death on Friday has intensified scrutiny of the campaign against him. Cofnas was previously sacked from his Cambridge post two years ago, adding a complex backdrop to the controversy. The investigation at Ghent marks a significant institutional response to the events leading up to Arday's death.
- Nathan Cofnas suspended by Ghent University as precautionary measure during disciplinary investigation
- Cofnas led plagiarism accusations against Jason Arday, Cambridge's youngest-ever black professor, found dead at 41
- Arday faced claims of thesis plagiarism and exaggerated achievements; Cofnas was fired from Cambridge in 2023
Why It Matters
This institutional action highlights accountability for academics who drive destructive campaigns, especially after a tragic death.