Academic Accusing Late Professor of Plagiarism Suspended by University

Nathan Cofnas, a postdoctoral researcher at Ghent University and a self-described “race realist,” has been suspended by the institution. This action follows his public accusations that the late Cambridge professor Jason Arday engaged in plagiarism.

Cofnas stated he is under investigation “for discriminating against Arday.” The university confirmed a staff member was notified of a “preliminary disciplinary investigation” and was suspended as a precautionary measure.

Ghent University’s rector, Petra De Sutter, and vice-rector, Herwig Reynaert, commented on the situation, acknowledging the “recent public statements” made by a postdoctoral researcher regarding Arday. They stated the university takes these matters “very seriously” and has “taken appropriate action.”

The university emphasized its commitment to “respect for human dignity” and opposition to “discrimination, hatred and racism.” While affirming the importance of “academic freedom and open academic debate,” they noted that this freedom is “not unlimited” and “goes hand in hand with responsibility,” potentially being restricted to “protect the rights of others.”

Arday, who passed away on August 14, faced weeks of media scrutiny over allegations of plagiarism and questions surrounding his achievements, which he denied. Cofnas had claimed his analysis of Arday’s work revealed numerous passages lifted with minimal changes, even retaining original editing errors.

Questions had also been raised about Arday’s reported athletic feats for charity and his rapid rise to becoming Cambridge’s youngest black professor in 2023. Arday had resigned from his professorship the week before his death.

Source: https://nilepost.co.uk/news/365558/academic-who-accused-jason-arday-of-plagiarism-suspended-by-university