UCI prof risks job by refusing sexual harassment training

Prominent biologist Alexander McPherson calls requirement 'sham.' A prominent UC Irvine biologist who generates millions in research funding might be placed on an unpaid leave for refusing to take sexual harassment prevention training he calls a “sham” that offends his sensibilities and casts suspicion on his reputation. UCI has already relieved Alexander McPherson of his duties supervising scientists in his lab, where he studies proteins, the “building blocks of life.” The campus also ordered that his teaching responsibilities be reassigned, but the order was rescinded.“The state has no right whatsoever, in my view, to inflict its narrow political, social, or cultural proclivities on me, an individual,” he told Osborne by e-mail. (break) “This sexual harassment edict is a blunt political act, and I will not be subject to their will. … My greatest amazement is that so few of my colleagues at UCI and at other campuses have not spoken out against this offense. What is next? Kneel and kiss the ring of the State Assembly leader? Political re-education camp?” Osborne responded, in part, by saying in an e-mail, “I know this (training) comes from politically motivated roots but it has been passed down to us like you know what flows downstream. The training is not meant as an attack or insult to anyone's personal integrity.” McPherson offered his version of a compromise, asking UCI to sign a disclaimer that says the training is “strictly a pro forma condition for his continued employment” and that he'd never sexually harassed anyone under his supervision in the UC system. UCI turned down his offer. Bennett, the dean, told McPherson he faced “leave without pay” if he does not comply with AB 1825. Click on title for article