Cambridge v-c promises independent Arday investigation

The University of Cambridge’s vice-chancellor has committed to an independent investigation of Jason Arday’s appointment and tenure at the institution, promising to “learn from any mistakes”.

In her first public remarks since allegations of plagiarism and research misconduct were made against the star sociology professor, Deborah Prentice said the “troubling case” should not be used to undermine other ethnic minority scholars.

Arday resigned on 5 August citing relentless public attention on his work and personal life. He has denied being a “liar” after questions were raised about apparent plagiarism in his doctoral thesis, his claims to hold certain academic positions and his research methods.

Cambridge had already committed to investigating and now Prentice has confirmed this will be carried out independently by senior academics both from within Cambridge and outside the university.

A letter, sent to all staff at the university by Prentice, says she understands the concerns raised by the case “and I share them”.

“I know there is anger and anxiety around this damaging and difficult case. The highest standards of academic excellence have been a core principle at Cambridge for many centuries, and this is reflected in the outstanding research and teaching we see here every day. We are committed to maintaining those standards,” she writes.

The investigation will look at Arday’s appointment in 2022 and his four years at the university.

The findings will feed into a wider review of senior academic appointments which are currently led by the relevant department at the university, in Arday’s case the Faculty of Education.

Prentice also said that the university’s misconduct in research policy will be reviewed. When the allegations first surfaced, Cambridge deferred comment on Arday’s PhD to the awarding institution, Liverpool John Moores University, which said it had investigated and cleared the professor.

The vice-chancellor says in her letter that there is a “need to understand if there is more we could do when serious allegations are raised in relation to our own academic standards at Cambridge”.

She says the investigation needed to “clearly and loudly affirm” that staff of colour “are highly valued, for their scholarship, their achievements, and the contributions they make to the institution and the wider academic community”.

“This particular case is an aberration and should not be used to cast aspersions on their work or the legitimacy of their roles at Cambridge.”

Prentice, whose position has also recently been questioned in light of her handling of whistleblowing complaints at the university, said the review will take time “so we can learn from any mistakes and, where needed, improve our processes”.

tom.williams@timeshighereducation.com