Oxford biochemistry lecturer's appearance attracts formal complaints

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 2 Nov, 11:46 · Archive

A biochemistry lecturer at Oxford University has faced formal complaints over his appearance, which includes wearing prosthetic breasts, women's clothing and makeup.

Matt Rattley, a biochemistry lecturer at St Hilda's College, Oxford, has faced formal complaints over his appearance at the university. His presentation includes wearing prosthetic breasts with low-cut tops, women's clothing and makeup. The lecturer was appointed as a non-stipendiary lecturer in 2023.

Three college graduates, including a clinical psychologist, have written to St Hilda's expressing concern that Rattley's behaviour 'violates women's dignity'. They stated it would be 'reasonable for them to feel that it creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating and offensive environment'. St Hilda's has received at least three formal letters of complaint, including one from the parent of a current undergraduate. Some complaints have alleged that the situation amounts to sexual harassment against female students and teachers.

One anonymous Oxford academic who attended training sessions with Rattley described finding the experience distressing, saying they missed most sessions because being around him was so upsetting. During a presentation, the academic reported feeling uncomfortable with the prosthetic breasts in close proximity and found it difficult to know where to look.

Sex Matters, a gender-critical advocacy group, has criticised Oxford University for its apparent failure to question whether Rattley's actions 'might amount to harassment of female students'. The group said there is 'no evidence' he identifies as a woman and called on the university to 'call time' on what it described as 'inappropriate' behaviour.

How it is being reported

• 'It seems no one at Oxford University questioned whether this might make female students uncomfortable': Backlash over bearded lecturer with prosthetic breastsCampaigners at Sex Matters said it appeared no one at Oxford had questioned whether Matt Rattley's actions 'might amount to harassment of female students'.Daily Mail · 2 Nov, 11:29
• Outrage as bearded Oxford University lecturer wears huge fake breastsMatt Rattley, a biochemistry lecturer at St Hilda's College, has been subject to formal letters of complaint.Daily Express · 1 Nov, 07:53
• Bearded Oxford University lecturer teaches female students while wearing large fake breasts, low-cut tops, red lipstick and nail varnishMatt Rattley, a lecturer in biochemistry at St Hilda's College, (pictured) has already attracted online controversy thanks to his bizarre appearance, which also involves female clothes and makeup.Daily Mail · 31 Oct, 12:47

In this story: Matt Rattley · St Hilda's College · Oxford University · Sex Matters

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