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Strathclyde University professor sacked over sexual harassment allegations

News imageBBC Dr Ibrahim Khadra looking directly into the camera. He has short dark hair and a serious expression on his face. He is standing outside at a political rally.BBC
Dr Ibrahim Khadra had been removed from his post as Professor in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Strathclyde University

A professor at the University of Strathclyde has been sacked from his post after students accused him of sexual harassment.

Dr Ibrahim Khadra was removed as Professor in Pharmaceutical Sciences following an internal investigation, the university said.

In allegations first reported by Glasgow Live, students said Khadra had requested intimate images and harassed them via text messages and phone calls.

Police Scotland said it was investigating after receiving a report of an "inappropriate communication".

The University of Strathclyde said it had taken the accusations "extremely seriously" and the safety and wellbeing of its students "was paramount".

A spokesperson added: "The university suspended the staff member as soon as we became aware of the allegations and, following a full investigation, the individual was dismissed.

"The university has provided ongoing support to those affected and will continue to do so.

"We recognise the courage it takes for anyone to come forward, and where they do they will be heard and supported."

Khadra was a PhD student at Strathclyde between 2002 and 2006, and later joined the university as a research associate in 2010.

In 2016 he became a lecturer there, becoming an associate professor in 2020 and then a professor in December 2024.

He also served as the university's advisor on engagement with the Middle East and North Africa.

The Palestinian academic was previously in the news in 2023, after saying more than 40 of his family had been killed in Gaza due to Israeli attacks.

He spoke at a rally in Glasgow city centre, where thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters had gathered urging an end to Israel's attacks.

In 2025 the university's newspaper reported he was among students and staff calling for Strathclyde to do more to support Palestine, amid a row over it having ties with arms manufacturers.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We have received a report relating to inappropriate communication. Inquiries are ongoing."