Oxford University faces complaints over lecturer's attire

Oxford University is facing criticism following complaints regarding Matt Rattley, a biochemistry lecturer at St Hilda’s College, who teaches while wearing women's clothing, makeup, and large prosthetic breasts.

Several formal complaints have been submitted to the college administration. These include a letter from three graduates, one of whom is a clinical psychologist, alleging that the behavior violates women's dignity and creates an intimidating, hostile, and offensive environment. Other complaints, including one from a parent of an undergraduate, have alleged that the situation amounts to sexual harassment against female students and staff.

An anonymous academic reported feeling distressed by the lecturer's appearance during training sessions. While the university has faced calls from advocacy groups like Sex Matters to address the matter, the lecturer, who was appointed as a non-stipendiary lecturer in 2023, reportedly maintains some support within the college.