Updates and Guidance on Postdoc and Research Associate Unionization

Dear faculty and staff,

We write today with an update about the Petition for Election filed by the United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America (UE), a labor union seeking to represent Postdoctoral Scholars and Research Associates at Northwestern.

During the time since UE initially filed a Petition for Election, the University and UE have worked together and with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to reach an agreement on the details for a secret-ballot election that will determine whether a majority of postdocs and research associates wish to be represented by the UE union. These details include who is permitted to vote, where and when voting will take place, and who would be in the “bargaining unit” (a group of individuals collectively represented by a labor union) if a majority of voters cast ballots in favor of unionizing with UE.

The University and UE, with the NLRB’s input and approval, have reached an agreement about the details of the election, which will take place Aug. 25-26 on the Evanston and Chicago campuses. Per the NLRB, all voting will take place in person and there is not a mail-in option.

Please refer to the Election Details section on our new postdoctoral unionization website for additional information and FAQs. Election details are also contained in a Notice of Election issued by the NLRB, which will be physically posted on campus, emailed to permitted voters by the University and posted on our postdoctoral unionization website.

Faculty and staff members continue to have the same right to speak freely and express opinions about unions and unionization, but must avoid any threats, interrogation, promises or surveillance. Please see the Guidelines for Discussing Unionization Brief for specific guidance. Please be sure to remind postdocs and research associates that union representation elections are determined by the majority of votes cast, so it is important for every permitted Postdoctoral Scholar and Research Associate to vote as they will be subject to the outcome of the election.

Northwestern University values the contributions that Postdoctoral Scholars and Research Associates make to its research mission. The University remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting these individuals for future success. Thank you for your engagement on this important issue for our Postdoctoral Scholars and Research Associates and for Northwestern.

Please email the Office of the Provost with any questions.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Hagerty
Provost
First Chicago Professor of Finance

Eric Perreault
Vice President for Research