Statement on the death of Professor Jason Arday

We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Professor Jason Arday and extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends.  

Professor Arday, who became Cambridge University’s youngest black professor, was a friend of the University and a great supporter of our work on equality, diversity and inclusion. 

He came to our campus to discuss decolonising research with our academics in 2023 and was the headline speaker at a Brad-ATTAIN online networking event on 'Empowering ethnically minoritised PhD students and Early Career Researchers' in 2025. 

On Monday 17 August, a vigil was held in Bradford’s Centenary Square led by Prof Udy Archibong, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. I was honoured to speak at the event and to see many of our University staff and students stand together with members of the city’s different communities, to reflect on the life of Professor Arday and his legacy.  

In my speech I highlighted how Jason had supported our mission and how he would continue to be proud of our standing as first in England for ‘social mobility’ for five consecutive years. As a university, we are lucky to be based in one of the country’s most diverse cities, and we know how communities benefit from a rich mix of ethnic backgrounds, vibrant cultures and faiths.  

Professor Arday was a prominent and inspiring Black academic who was open about the challenges he faced as someone who was neurodivergent. We understand that his death, following intense public scrutiny and personal criticism will be felt deeply across our University community and we want to be clear that we stand by our students and staff who are feeling particularly vulnerable at this time.

There is much discussion regarding the circumstances surrounding Professor Arday’s death, but what we all must remember is that this was a person of incredible determination, who faced personal challenges, and who was an inspirational member of the academic community. 

We remain dedicated to the cause Professor Arday was committed to in providing the opportunities and support for students and staff from all backgrounds to flourish. 

We are offering support to staff and students at this difficult time. 

Professor Gill Murray  
Vice Chancellor