Ghent University allows academic Nathan Cofnas to resume limited work during probe

Ghent University has permitted Nathan Cofnas, a US academic who accused the late Cambridge professor Jason Arday of plagiarism, to resume selected academic duties. The Belgian institution announced on Friday that Cofnas may return to work while a disciplinary inquiry continues, provided he works remotely and does not engage in teaching. Cofnas had previously been suspended as a precautionary measure. He stated that the investigation was looking into possible discrimination and thanked US Ambassador to Belgium Bill White for his interest in the case. Ghent University confirmed it had been in contact with Ambassador White.

Jason Arday, who was once Cambridge's youngest Black professor, was found dead in London this month at age 41. His death occurred days after he resigned from his position. Arday had denied the plagiarism allegations, though he acknowledged making mistakes. The claims against him led to wider scrutiny of his career and personal life. An inquest into his death opened earlier this week, following a vigil in Trafalgar Square where speakers criticized the media coverage Arday received before his death.

Cofnas joined Ghent University after Emmanuel College at Cambridge severed ties with him. This followed student concerns over blog posts in which Cofnas argued that in a meritocracy, Black people would disappear from most high profile positions outside of sports and entertainment. Cofnas denies being a racist and is currently in a legal dispute with Emmanuel College.