We are writing to provide resources for minimizing research disruptions and addressing continuity of research concerns in light of the announced strike by the UC academic appointees represented by United Auto Workers (UAW).
Represented units announced their intent to strike beginning Nov. 14, 2022, at all University of California locations, if an agreement is not reached.
Please note the following:
UC San Diego respects the rights of represented employees to bargain collectively on the terms and conditions of employment, and to perform legally protected strike activities, including picketing, near the exterior or campus property and entrances.
Principal investigators (PIs) and research group leads should plan alternate workflows now to be prepared in the event that Graduate Student Researchers, Postdoctoral Scholars, and Academic Researchers do not appear at scheduled work times.
Research facilities do not need to cease operations, but will need to adjust workflow in light of potential work stoppage.
While one must prepare for potential absences in the event of a UAW strike, it is not permissible to ask members of the represented units whether they intend to participate in a work stoppage, even if the intent of such questions is entirely operational.
Consider that other non-UAW members of the campus community and the public may prefer to work remotely or attend campus events remotely, to avoid crossing picket lines. Consider postponing or offering a hybrid option for meetings, events and symposia.
The academic appointees represented by UAW include:
Graduate Student Researchers (including some on training grants and external fellowships)
The University of California’s contracts with these four groups expired on October 31 and UC continues to negotiate in good faith with UAW. We are hopeful that an agreement will be reached soon.
It is important to strategize now about how a potential work stoppage may impact your lab, your research, your staff and your contractual obligations to any funding you receive.
Please note that you will not have to officially submit or have any plans approved by the university. We encourage you to develop a solid action plan that accommodates temporary changes in staff availability. Consider and plan for the extreme case that everyone represented by UAW will not report for scheduled work beginning Nov. 14.
For instance, develop alternative approaches to experiment schedules, supervision of undergraduate researchers, and changes in work assignments related to human subjects research or in vivo research. Develop a plan for communicating with participants in research studies. Review lab maintenance requirements, including handling of hazardous substances and materials. For more detailed information about ensuring continuity of research, please visit the Continuity of Research website.
Please note that there should be no restrictions of access to university research spaces to those within UAW who chose to work in good faith. It is unlawful to discourage or retaliate against employees because they have engaged in lawful strike activity. This is true even if the employee’s absence will cause disruption to the academic or research work of the institution.
How to respond to questions
PIs (including represented employees) and other managers should be prepared for questions about the strike, but should direct any discussion of specifics to Labor Relations.
Managers can explain that discussing any aspects of active bargaining negotiations is not permissible. However, you can express your support and concern for students and academic employees and desire for a fair contract for both parties.
Use the list of resources and contacts below for referrals. Do not attempt to interpret what you have heard related to current labor negotiations or develop assumptions based on previous experience.
To address workflow questions, we strongly recommend that you develop a clear plan to prepare your team members for temporary changes in staffing and the reporting of staffing hours to funding agencies. If reporting staff hours can be delayed until labor negotiations have concluded, please do so until there is further guidance.
What if you have questions?
Consult UC San Diego Research Affairs (vcr@ucsd.edu) or any of the offices below.
