The University of Cambridge says its review of Jason Arday’s appointment and time at the institution will be independent, following concerns that it could not fairly examine its own processes. The investigation follows Arday’s resignation last week amid plagiarism allegations and questions over aspects of his academic record, all of which he denies.

Senior academics from Cambridge and elsewhere will conduct the inquiry, which is due to begin as soon as possible, though its leadership and remit have not yet been set out. Its findings will inform a review of senior academic appointments; Liverpool John Moores University previously found no plagiarism in allegations concerning Arday’s PhD, while the University of Glasgow is also reviewing his former post.