Lecturer branded ‘transphobic’ over Harry Potter lab music

Claims that a university lecturer was “transphobic” for playing Harry Potter soundtracks in his laboratory classes have been dismissed.

Dr John Baird — Senior Lecturer of Zoology at the University of Aberdeen — was under investigation for over a year after four postgraduate students alleged he was a racist, bigot, homophobe, misogynist and transphobe, despite having never attended his classes.

The academic regularly posts content on social media critical of transgender ideology and shares gender-critical comments from the likes of JK Rowling, Sharron Davies, Sex Matters and Kathleen Stock.

‘Preposterous’

Announcing on X that he had “been cleared of all accusations”, Dr Baird said: “The evidence was preposterous and I should never have been investigated.”

He explained: “Highlights included that I play Harry Potter music in my teaching labs, which I do. I was asked directly by the external HR company who were employed to interview me, why I played it — I burst out laughing.

“I play it because my students love Harry Potter and it sets a nice vibe in the lab, which builds a bridge between me and the students.”

Dr Baird, who said he had been subject to death threats over the issue, added he was glad to report that “bar the odd activist, my students are the loveliest and brightest young people anyone could have the privilege to meet”.

Debate

A spokesperson for the university commented: “Individuals have the right to hold and express their beliefs, even if those beliefs may be opposed by others, without fear of censorship or reprisal.

“Debate is an important part of university culture. Forums for discussions should be conducted in the context of our values of openness and mutual respect.”

Earlier this year, it was reported that university staff and students across the UK have suffered “extreme personal consequences” for upholding the reality of biological sex.

In an analysis of 130 responses to a call for evidence hosted on University College London’s website, cited barriers to research included “self-censorship and chilling effects” (58 per cent), “bullying, harassment and ostracism” (42 per cent) and “institutional policies and training” (32 per cent).