UAW Local 4811 Leaders Unite to Combat NIH Funding Cuts: What It Means for Workers – Daily Bruin

On Wednesday, members of United Auto Workers Local 4811 came together with students across the University of California to protest cuts in National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding proposed by the Trump administration.

According to Sydney Campbell, a postdoctoral researcher and head steward of UAW Local 4811 at UCLA, these cuts would reduce funding for indirect costs to only 15%. She explained that indirect costs are crucial because they cover expenses that don’t go directly to lab staff or safety protocols. This reduction could lead to more than a 50% drop in funding for many institutions, risking the jobs and research of countless scientists.

During the meeting, Campbell emphasized the importance of uniting and strategizing against these funding cuts, which could jeopardize years of research and employment for many. She pointed out that although the cuts are framed as a way to save $4 billion, every dollar invested in NIH usually brings back a 250% return, potentially costing the economy $6 billion in the long run.

Jordan Grimaldi, a graduate student in urban and regional planning, participated to show solidarity. She noted that if universities can’t fund research, then the purpose of their education comes into question. “If people can’t do their jobs, what are we doing here?” she asked.

Campbell, who researches cancer, stressed that publicly funded research is key for advancing understanding and treatment of diseases like cancer. She highlighted that cancer research heavily relies on NIH support.

Aya Konishi, a sociology doctoral student, expressed concern about how these cuts would harm essential biomedical research conducted by graduate students and postdoctorates. Much of the valuable work done at UC schools is at risk if funding is slashed.

Claire Bekker, another doctoral student focused on environmental health sciences, shared that she depends on a National Science Foundation grant for her work. The potential impact of the proposed policy worries her and contributed to her motivation to attend the meeting.

Michael Wasney, a doctoral student in human genetics and a UAW Local 4811 organizer, described the cuts as a serious threat to public education and research. He urged members, including those in labor unions, to advocate for funding and support for public research to their legislators.

During the meeting, Campbell outlined three ways members can take action: connect with their legislators, share their research stories, and encourage more colleagues to join the union. Wasney added that everyone should consider their role in the fight against disease and the importance of contributing to scientific knowledge.

He also warned that these funding cuts represent an attack on future generations’ access to top-notch education, raising concerns about the long-term implications for the country.

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