Research Associates and Postdocs United at Penn (RAPUP) is pressing the University for better conditions for postdoctoral researchers and research associates. They’ve put forth 31 proposals aimed at improving compensation, healthcare, childcare, and support for international researchers.
Geordan Stukey, a postdoc in physiology and a member of the bargaining committee, shared that these demands stem from long-standing issues. Many concerns focus on compensation, with the expectation that researchers should earn fairly given their critical role in advancing the university’s research goals. Their proposal includes a minimum salary of $85,000 for postdocs and $103,210 for research associates, as well as relocation payments and teaching stipends.
Stukey emphasized the rising cost of living, stating, “Wages have not kept pace with the increasing cost of living.” His colleague, Ryan Fair, noted that while progress has been made on some articles, key issues like compensation and healthcare still need to be addressed.
In their healthcare proposal, RAPUP is advocating for full medical, dental, and vision coverage paid by the university. They also want expanded mental health services and reduced out-of-pocket costs. Furthermore, their childcare proposal aims to cap expenses at a percentage of salary and provide monthly payments to help with childcare costs.
Despite these needs, the university has not always responded favorably. In a previous bargaining update, RAPUP reported that Penn expressed strong objections to childcare subsidies, leading to frustration among union members. Emily Feierman, another postdoc, highlighted how this lack of support affects decisions about family planning for researchers.
International researchers face additional challenges. RAPUP has called for the university to cover visa-related costs and ensure stability in employment during visa delays. Stukey pointed out the unique pressures international researchers face, which seem to have been largely overlooked by the administration.
Recently, over 450 postdocs and research associates signed a letter urging Penn’s Provost to prioritize proposals related to appointment lengths and international support.
These negotiations follow a successful agreement with a graduate workers’ union, Graduate Employees Together — University of Pennsylvania, earlier this year, which Stukey says provides a model for their efforts.
Ongoing negotiations may set a new standard for how postdoctoral researchers are valued, echoing a broader movement for fair treatment of research labor. Fair believes these efforts are part of a crucial shift in academia, striving for systemic change.
For more on RAPUP’s proposals or to stay updated on developments, you can check out their official website.
