UW researchers go on strike over contract negotiations

Researchers at the University of Washington went on strike Wednesday to put more pressure on the university in contract negotiations.

“We love our research but UW left us no choice. We will be striking until we get a fair contract. Our priority has always been ensuring that science at UW is sustainable and inclusive, and that means fair pay so we can all afford rent, take care of our families, and stay in the careers we love,” said Rebecca Bluett, postdoctoral scholar at UW, in a news release from the union, UW Researchers United or UAW 4121.

The union represents about 1,500 UW staff researchers and 900 postdoctoral researchers. The postdocs are negotiating a new agreement, and the staff researchers are in their first contract negotiations after forming a union a year ago.

Issues in the strike include pay, child care and a harassment-prevention program, according to the union.

UW spokesman Victor Balta said university officials are disappointed at the union’s decision to strike after significant progress had been made in negotiations in both contracts recently. He noted that the offers on the table include significant wage increases.

The University says its proposal includes increases for research scientists of about 10% over three years plus changes in the pay structure and a catch-up increase of 3.25% for those who did not get a merit raise last year. For postdocs, UW is offering an average 15% total wage increase this year, including 13% in January when new minimums were introduced, plus higher minimum salaries. 

“Our postdocs and research scientists are valued members of our university community and important contributors to our research mission,” Balta said in a statement Wednesday. “We all agree that fair and competitive compensation creates a more inclusive and sustainable scientific workforce and is needed to continue to attract talented postdocs and research scientists.”