Cambridge Investigates Youngest Black Professor Jason Arday After New Information

Arday, who has faced allegations of plagiarism and embellishment, was initially defended by Cambridge as the victim of a vile campaign, but the university now says it must ensure a fair process. The Guardian's own investigation uncovered discrepancies in Arday's public accounts, including claims of prodigious fundraising and being targeted by knife-wielding intruders. Arday has denied plagiarism, citing multiple investigations that cleared him.

The university's statement on Wednesday evening confirmed the probe, while Jesus College, Cambridge, is running a parallel process. The new investigation may relate to Arday's claims of visiting fellowships at universities including Ohio State, which has denied employing him. Arday, who was diagnosed with autism at age three and could not speak until 11, was appointed professor of sociology at Cambridge at 37. He has also revised some claims, including completing 30 marathons in 35 days and raising £5m for charity.