A University of Aberdeen lecturer, Dr. John Baird, a Senior Lecturer in Zoology, endured a year-long investigation after four postgraduate students—who had never attended his classes—branded him a racist, bigot, homophobe, misogynist, and transphobe. The complaints targeted his social media activity, where he critiqued transgender ideology and shared views from figures like JK Rowling, Sharron Davies, Sex Matters, and Kathleen Stock. Despite the allegations, Dr. Baird was fully exonerated, declaring on X that the evidence was “preposterous” and the probe should never have occurred.
Central to the accusations was Dr. Baird’s habit of playing Harry Potter soundtracks during laboratory sessions, which the students deemed transphobic due to JK Rowling’s stances. He explained that he selects the music because his students enjoy Harry Potter, fostering a positive atmosphere and building rapport in the lab. During an interview with an external HR firm, he laughed at the suggestion, emphasizing that the choice was innocuous and student-driven.
Dr. Baird also revealed receiving death threats amid the ordeal but praised his actual students as “lovely and bright,” noting that opposition came from occasional activists. A university spokesperson affirmed that individuals have the right to hold and express beliefs without censorship or reprisal.
Discussion about this post