Nathan Cofnas, the academic who made plagiarism allegations against late Cambridge professor Jason Arday, has been suspended by Ghent University in Belgium pending a preliminary disciplinary investigation.
Cofnas, a postdoctoral researcher at the university, said he was being investigated over allegations of discrimination against Arday. Ghent University confirmed the suspension, saying it opposes discrimination, hatred and racism while stressing that academic freedom comes with responsibility.
The university said the suspension was a precautionary measure as it determines whether there are sufficient grounds for further disciplinary action.
Arday, who became Cambridge University’s youngest Black professor in 2023, died aged 41 after facing intense scrutiny over plagiarism allegations. His death has since sparked widespread tributes and debate over the treatment and media coverage he received.
