We, Princeton University Postdocs and Scholars (PUPS-UAW), are postdoctoral research associates, postdoctoral research fellows, associate research scholars, senior research assistants, and post-graduate research associates at Princeton.
As part of a growing movement of worker power, we demand a fair and transparent collective bargaining process aimed at securing increased wages, stronger worker rights and protections, and improved benefits. These changes will enable us to thrive within and outside the workplace, and reflect our value to Princeton University. The specific demands, outlined below, are based on bargaining surveys completed by members of our our bargaining unit.
1. Salary, Compensation, and Appointments
Recognizing that postdocs and scholars have undertaken extensive commitments to education, often at great cost to their lifetime earning potential, we demand transparent contracts with higher wages that consistently respond to increasing costs of living and create a stable work-life balance. More specifically, we strive for:
a. Higher wages
Fair wages and base salaries that match the high cost of living in the Princeton area and are adjusted for inflation experience
b. Secure and extended appointments
Longer appointment terms and measures to reduce the burdens of appointment renewals
c. Transparent appointments
Timely and clear appointment paperwork detailing guaranteed benefits, policies, and job expectations
2. Housing, Transportation, and Wellness
Recognizing that postdocs’ and scholars’ conditions outside of the workplace directly impact their livelihoods and ability to contribute fully to the university and the broader community, we demand increased and affordable access to housing, transportation, and other benefits which enable us to engage fully at work and at home. More specifically, we strive for:
a. Affordable and accessible housing
Greater control, options, and transparency in the housing selection process, with expanded eligibility criteria, increased quality conditions and amenities, and improved resources for those seeking accommodations outside of Princeton housing
b. Wellness
Affordable access to recreational spaces that support physical and mental well-being
c. Transportation
Improved access to existing University transportation programs and expanded alternatives for commuters
3. Benefits
Recognizing that postdocs and scholars succeed when they and their families are healthy and financially secure, now and in the future, we demand expanded and affordable access to healthcare, childcare, and retirement benefits that sustain a more equitable and accessible workplace community. More specifically, we strive for:
a. Healthcare
Expanded options, access, affordability, and transparency for healthcare, including dental, vision, mental, reproductive, and gender-affirming care for workers and their families
b. Family support
Increased options, access, affordability, and transparency for child care both on and off campus
c. Retirement
Improved and secure access to retirement benefits for all postdocs
4. Workplace Rights & Protections
Recognizing that postdocs and scholars face increased public and workplace scrutiny, which often perpetuates fear and precarity, we demand robust protections to our safety and academic freedom, as well as access to clear and fair procedures in cases of disciplinary action, including guaranteed grievance processes. More specifically, we strive for:
a. Workers’ rights and safety
Enhanced rights to academic freedom and a safe working environment free from harassment or retaliation
b. Disciplinary procedures
Clear and fair procedures for addressing potential disciplinary actions
c. Grievance and arbitration procedures
Protections against contract violations and unjust terminations, with fair and timely appeals processes and access to third-party arbitration
d. Intellectual Property
Enhanced rights to intellectual property, as well as increased ownership and control over research processes and products such as grants and publications
5. Workplace Support
Recognizing that postdocs and scholars contribute to a thriving and diverse community, we demand increased and accessible support for all members of our community, and especially for new workers, workers navigating international boundaries, and workers seeking professional advancement. More specifically, we strive for:
a. Support for international postdocs
Proactive communication and support for international postdocs, including reduced uncertainty about the visa process and other issues
b. Accessibility and diversity
Policies that enhance accessibility and diversity, including transparent job postings, cultural and affinity spaces, and reasonable accommodations for workers with disabilities
c. New postdocs and scholars
Clear and accessible resources for newly hired postdocs and scholars
d. Ease work-related expenses
Transparent and standardized reimbursement policies to prevent out-of-pocket payments for work-related expenses
e. Professional development
Expanded funding and support for professional development opportunities and career advancement resources
6. Union rights and security
Recognizing that postdocs and scholars overwhelmingly support unionization and are entitled to a voice in the workplace, we demand the right to organize our union freely and without interference. More specifically, we strive for:
a. Union Security and Access
Protections for union security and access to the workplace, allowing union representatives and members to perform vital union functions such as representation, contract enforcement, and worker’s rights education
b. Union Representation
Enhanced protections for effective union representation and regular new-worker orientations about their rights and benefits as guaranteed under our contract