Professor Jason Arday’s death has been classed as “unnatural” by a coroner.
The 41-year-old academic was found dead at an address in Battersea, south London, on August 14.
An inquest into Professor Arday’s death opened at London Inner South Coroner’s Court on Wednesday, where it was heard that he had been found unresponsive by relatives.
The academic was pronounced dead at the property following attempts to resuscitate him.
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Senior coroner for London Inner South Dr Julian Morris told the inquest that Professor Arday had died an “unnatural death”.
The classification does not imply suspicious circumstances but means the coroner must investigate the death.
The proceedings were watched remotely by relatives of the 41-year-old.
Dr Morris told London Inner South Coroner’s Court: “The initial investigations, whilst I await the various reports, have given me reason to suspect that [he] died an unnatural death… it therefore follows that I must open an investigation.
“I will be setting out further directions for the coroner officer.”
Professor Arday resigned from his post as professor of sociology of education at the University of Cambridge earlier this month after facing scrutiny over accusations of plagiarism.
The accusations against him were initially made by academic Nathan Cofnas, a postdoctoral researcher at Ghent University’s department of philosophy and moral sciences.
Following Professor Arday’s death, Mr Cofnas was suspended by the Belgian university amid a “discrimination” investigation.
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Meanwhile, a spokesman for Professor Arday’s family said they were “deeply moved by the extraordinary support” they had received after a fundraiser launched in his memory topped £224,000.
The fundraiser was closed to donations on Monday at the family’s request.
The funds will go towards providing financial and practical support for the family, as well as meeting funeral and memorial expenses.
Professor Arday’s memoir, Great And Unfortunate Things, is due to be published in the UK on Thursday.
Simon & Schuster announced on Monday that the book would be released as planned, with his family saying: “It is only right that we honour his wishes.”
In a message published on Tuesday, Professor Arday’s family said: “We are deeply moved by the extraordinary support we have received.
“The response to this appeal reflects the number of people whose lives were touched by our beloved Jason and the affection, respect and admiration in which he was held.
“Jason devoted his life and career to advancing education, widening participation, tackling race and inequality, and championing autism and neurodiversity.
“It means a great deal to us that so many people wish to celebrate his life and remember the difference he made to others.
“We are still grieving the loss of our beloved son, partner, father, brother, uncle and friend.
“We hope you will understand our need for time and space as we come to terms with this devastating loss and consider how best to move forward.”
Anyone who is in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide can call the Samaritans anonymously for free from a UK phone on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org.
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