This just in from Alexander McPherson, the University of California at Irvine biologist who refuses to take a state-mandated training class in sexual-harassment prevention at his university: He won’t be attending today’s class, which is slated to begin at 10 a.m., Pacific time.

Mr. McPherson, whose absence could cause him to be put on unpaid leave, said he would be working instead on an “experiment that’s going to take up all of my time this morning.”

The molecular biologist has said that the training, among other things, puts his career and reputation at risk.

According to the Orange County Register, at least two members of Mr. McPherson’s staff have urged him to change his mind because their jobs, with salaries covered by grants he secures, depend on him.

Mr. McPherson said the plight of the people who work in his lab “makes this a very, very difficult situation.” However, he is counting on the university to do what it takes to keep his staff from possibly losing their jobs over his stance.

“What I am betting on is that ultimately we’re going to resolve this in a rational matter,” Mr. McPherson said. —Audrey Williams June