Christopher Mallon, who was a teaching associate at QUB School of Law until April this year, claims that a “catalogue of failings” led to his alleged constructive dismissal from the post. Mr Mallon has an anxiety disorder, arthritis and Crohn’s disease.

The case came before the Industrial Tribunals and Fair Employment Tribunal in Belfast ahead of a hearing next year.

As well as the allegations of discrimination, the tribunal will have to rule on whether Mr Mallon was a worker, an employee or an independent contractor. He is claiming status as an employee.

Pinsent Masons is representing QUB in the proceedings. Mr Mallon represented himself yesterday, but has since found representation.