Suspension of Academic Amid Controversy at Belgian University

Ghent University in Belgium has suspended academic Nathan Cofnas pending an investigation. This decision follows his public allegations against former Cambridge professor Jason Arday, whom he accused of plagiarism.

Nathan Cofnas, previously affiliated with Cambridge University and currently a postdoctoral researcher at Ghent, gained attention for claims related to genetic differences in intelligence. He recently accused Dr. Arday, a Black academic, of plagiarizing his doctoral dissertation in a newsletter. This statement led to widespread media coverage in the UK and further claims about Dr. Arday’s personal history. Dr. Arday resigned from Cambridge University earlier this month and was later found dead.

In a statement, Ghent University emphasized its commitment to academic freedom and open debate, recognizing that such freedom has limits. The university expressed the necessity to balance freedom with responsibility to protect others’ rights.

Dr. Cofnas, speaking from the United States, confirmed his suspension. He suggested the decision may have been politically motivated, while Ghent University has not commented on this assertion.

Liverpool John Moores University, which conferred Dr. Arday’s Ph.D., investigated the plagiarism allegations but chose not to revoke his degree. An inquiry by The New York Times revealed Cambridge University had previously overlooked warnings concerning Dr. Arday’s work and background.

In Dr. Arday’s resignation letter dated August 5, he expressed discomfort with continuous public scrutiny. Following his passing, Dr. Arday’s family stated that the misinformation campaign had overwhelmed him.

Additional reporting was contributed by Mara Hvistendahl.

Leo Sands, a correspondent for The New York Times Breaking News Hub in London, reported on this story.