By Basant El-Faramawy
Cambridge University has appointed Jason Beer KC, the lead barrister for the Post Office inquiry, to head an independent review into its appointment processes following the death of Professor Jason Arday.
Review Scope
Beer will examine “difficult and potentially uncomfortable questions” related to the recruitment of the late professor, the handling of allegations regarding his research and other misconduct, and the support for academics facing significant scrutiny. The review is prepared to identify possible failings within the university and consider whether wider institutional changes are needed.
Background on Arday's Death
Professor Arday, Cambridge’s youngest-ever Black professor, was found dead at his Battersea home in August while facing intense scrutiny over allegations of plagiarism and questions over his academic qualifications. He denied the allegations and resigned as professor of the sociology of education that month after Cambridge announced an investigation into his qualifications and career.
Beer's Mandate
Beer said the review will not examine the plagiarism allegations made against Arday or make a judgement about his suitability for appointment. He described the task as a “weighty responsibility” and pledged to conduct an independent, thorough, and searching examination of the university’s institutional arrangements. Beer will be supported by an independent panel of four experts in higher education governance, research integrity, equality and inclusion, and the experiences of Black academics.
Second Review
This is the second of two independent reviews into the university’s involvement with Arday. Former Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England, Nazir Afzal, is leading the first review, which is examining the support, interventions and welfare protections available to Arday in the period before his death.
