The University of Cambridge will carry out an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jason Arday’s appointment and his time at the university, its vice-chancellor has confirmed.

The investigation will be carried out by senior academics from within and beyond Cambridge and will begin “as soon as possible”.

Arday resigned as a Cambridge professor of sociology of education last week amid allegations of plagiarism and questions about some of his achievements.

The 41-year-old – who became Cambridge’s youngest ever black professor in 2023 – denies any plagiarism and said the recent furore had led to “an unrelenting level of public scrutiny and personal attack”.

In a letter to university staff, Prof Deborah Prentice said she knows there is “anger and anxiety around this damaging and difficult case” and she shares concerns raised by those in Cambridge and beyond.

The letter continued: “Our staff of colour are highly valued, for their scholarship, their achievements, and the contributions they make to the institution and the wider academic community.”

Prentice said the case “should not be used to cast aspersions on their work or the legitimacy of their roles at Cambridge”.

The findings of the investigation, previously announced on Friday, will inform a review into the process for the appointment of senior academic roles, the university has said.