Belgium’s Ghent University has reportedly suspended academic Nathan Cofnas, who previously raised concerns over plagiarism allegations involving the late Cambridge University professor Jason Arday.

Cofnas disclosed the development on Thursday in a post on X, claiming that the university had suspended him and suggesting that he could ultimately lose his position.

“Ghent University has suspended me, and they will almost certainly fire me,” Cofnas wrote.

Ghent University had not immediately responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting.

Cofnas had publicly questioned allegations concerning Arday’s academic work and drew attention to the controversy surrounding the late professor.

Arday, who was described as Cambridge University’s youngest Black professor, was found dead last Friday after weeks of public scrutiny over allegations relating to his academic work.

He had rejected claims that he plagiarised material, while acknowledging that mistakes had been made.

His death subsequently intensified public attention on the allegations and the wider controversy surrounding his academic career.

However, the reason for Cofnas’ reported suspension remains unclear. There is currently no indication that Ghent University has publicly linked the disciplinary action to his comments or concerns regarding Arday.

It is also unclear whether the university intends to terminate Cofnas’ position following the reported suspension.

The development comes amid continuing debate over academic integrity, plagiarism allegations and the responsibilities of universities in handling disputes involving scholarly work.