We’re fighting layoffs and standing up for research at UCSD

Cut workers and the work suffers. Critical research on cancer, Alzheimer's, and other crucial studies is now at risk of derailment in the wake of UCSD’s recent decision to lay off 16 career animal technicians—on top of dozens of temporary staff cuts earlier this year. 

We know these technicians are the frontline staff responsible for the daily care of research animals, including “million-dollar mice” used in multi-year studies. The reality is that these cuts threaten the validity of experiments and could undermine years of work—putting us at risk of losing the next breakthrough for diseases that impact millions of lives. 

"We are standing united and hopeful that UCSD will rescind the layoffs. Right now, our workload has increased, morale has fallen, and we're facing a constant struggle to maintain the level of care that the research requires. These layoffs, the lack of transparency, and poor communication from management has shown my colleagues and me that now, more than ever, we have to stand together for the future of our work." Verenice Valdez, Animal Technician at UCSD

While UCSD may be short-sighted, UPTE members are not. We got to work. We’ve rallied, picketed, and repeatedly called on management to meet with us in good faith. And we’ve already landed one victory—fighting for and winning 30 days’ pay in lieu of notice for our laid-off members after they only received 30 days’ notice before their layoff. (Our contract plainly outlines 60 days’ notice.) Of course, management fought us hard on this before we won. Their reasoning? They “disagreed” with our interpretation of the contract. 

So, 30 is as good as 60? Are sick, dying, or dead research animals just as good as those healthy and cared-for? Is a severely understaffed workplace where injuries are rife and morale nearly extinct the same as a workplace where workers are supported, safe, and valued? We know the answer is a resounding “NO” even if management pretends otherwise. 

As long as UCSD continues to play games, we will continue to put on the pressure. It’s time to prioritize research, animal care, and workers over misplaced priorities.