World News
Ghent University bars researcher Nathan Cofnas from campus teaching for three months
The decision follows an inquiry launched after the death of Cambridge sociologist Jason Arday, whom Cofnas had accused of plagiarism.
The short version
- Ghent University has required postdoctoral researcher Nathan Cofnas to work remotely and banned him from campus teaching for three months.
- Cofnas is allowed to continue limited research while the Belgian institution conducts a preliminary inquiry to determine if additional disciplinary action is required.
- The decision follows allegations of plagiarism made by Cofnas in July against Cambridge professor Jason Arday, who died on August 14.
- US Ambassador to Belgium Bill White intervened in the dispute after publicly condemning Cofnas's initial suspension.
Key facts
- Ghent University confirmed a three-month disciplinary action against Nathan Cofnas, restricting him to remote work and banning campus teaching.[The Guardian]
- Cofnas accused University of Cambridge sociologist Jason Arday of plagiarism and disputed his biographical claims in July, weeks before Arday was found dead on August 14.[The Guardian]
- Ghent University initiated a preliminary inquiry after Arday's death to evaluate whether further disciplinary action against Cofnas is warranted.[The Guardian]
- US Ambassador to Belgium Bill White publicly criticized Cofnas's initial suspension and communicated with university leadership prior to the resolution.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- Ghent University has not decided whether the outcome of its preliminary inquiry will lead to additional disciplinary sanctions against Cofnas.[The Guardian]
Sources
- Jason Arday accuser given three-month teaching ban but can continue researchThe Guardian - World