Jason Arday death inquest opens in London

An inquest into the death of former Cambridge University academic Jason Arday opened in London on Wednesday, after he was found dead at his south London home earlier this month.

Arday, 41, was discovered by family members on August 14, the inquest heard. Coroner Julian Morris said Arday had been pronounced dead at his home and that London's Metropolitan Police had confirmed there were no signs of foul play at the scene.

The police had previously said the death was being treated as unexpected but was not believed to be suspicious. Morris said he was awaiting reports related to the death. The brief hearing lasted less than five minutes, and no date was given for the next hearing.

Arday resigned on August 5 as a Cambridge professor and fellow at Jesus College after both institutions announced probes into accusations against him. He had faced allegations that he plagiarised parts of his doctoral thesis and exaggerated some personal achievements, which he disputed.

In a letter posted online when he resigned, Arday said the move was the only way to end a difficult period but should not be mistaken for acceptance of the narratives surrounding him.