World | Oxford University Oxford Poetry Prof Resigns First female to nab top post reverses earlier decision amid smear campaign accusations By Jess Kilby Posted May 25, 2009 7:17 PM CDT Copied British poet Ruth Padel, great-great-granddaughter of Charles Darwin, resigned her post as Oxford Professor of Poetry today amid accusations she ran a smear campaign against a rival for the job. (AP Photo / Sang Tan) The first woman to hold one of the UK’s top poetry posts has reversed direction and announced her resignation amid accusations that she ran a smear campaign against a rival, the Telegraph reports. Ruth Padel stepped down as the Oxford Professor of Poetry today but maintained she acted in “good faith” in telling reporters about a book detailing sexual harassment accusations against Nobel laureate Derek Walcott. Read These Next Minneapolis shooter had a plan—and grievances. American Taylor Townsend gets an earful after her US Open win. Belichick's girlfriend is embracing 'gold digger' idea. A pregnant 17-year-old died after a road rage shooting. Report an error