Former Cambridge Professor Jason Arday has been found dead in London at the age of 41. Police confirmed that Arday was found unresponsive at a property in Battersea, on Friday afternoon.
The family of Arday said they are in shock to have lost an amazing father, partner, brother, uncle and son. Authorities stated that his death is not being treated suspicious, as he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Jason Arday made headlines in 2023, when he was appointed as the Cambridge’s youngest black professor, a historic achievement at one of the world’s most prestigious universities. His appointment was celebrated internationally, inspiring many within underrepresented communities who saw his success as a beacon of hope and possibility.
According to reports, Arday was subjected to a campaign of sustained abuse for more than three years since he accepted the role of professor at the university that made him want to see the best in everyone.
He was a professor of sociology of education, accused of plagiarized his PhD thesis, which he completed at Liverpool John Moores University.
University of Cambridge Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice said she was “desperately saddened” by the death of Prof Arday, adding, “Our heartfelt sympathies go to Jason Arday’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
