In recent discussions with fellow graduate students, GSRAs have expressed several concerns regarding their employment conditions:
Workload and work/life separation: Many GSRAs face the problem of no standard hours connected to an employment fraction and ultimately feel they are expected to be working, or be available to their advisor, all day every day. This issue is complicated by the fact that some GSRAs work on projects directly related to their dissertation — but some don’t. A one-size-fits-all solution is unlikely to work, but we think having the right to negotiate over the terms of employment would help solve this issue.
Having a voice, vote, and representation: Currently GSRAs have no say in negotiating employment wages, benefits, and workplace safety. These and other aspects of their working conditions are not protected by a collective bargaining agreement.
Leave and vacation: GSRA appointments do not provide for paid vacations or holidays. GSRAs are eligible for limited paid sick leave; however, this pay is subject to approval of their supervisor or department chair. Sick pay is currently not guaranteed. Many GSRAs are required to work during holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, and international students may have difficulties going home.
Grievance, arbitration, and conflict of interest resolution: If a GSRA has an issue with their employment or their supervisor, they currently have no official recourse. There are no official grievance procedures or neutral 3rd party binding arbitration.
Workplace safety: Many GSRAs work with dangerous substances and conditions, such as biohazards, radiation, toxic chemicals, and rooftop work for which specific training or unified procedures are necessary. A collective bargaining agreement would ensure that adequate paid training is provided for all employees.
In addition to above, many other concerns have been mentioned by the GSRAs:
- Authorship
- Improvement of dental, vision, and health benefits
- Problems with unfair hiring, favoritism, and lack of offer letters
- Exploitation of international students
- Erratic pay schedules
- Lack of mentoring, especially for under-represented groups
- Being required to supply one’s own equipment for work.
- Workplace disparities: office overcrowding; lack of quality research facilities, and lack of kitchen space
- Lack of North Campus food options
- SEVIS fee ($200) is not reimbursed for GSRAs, although it is for GSIs/GSSAs
- Lack of support for women’s issues and maternity leave.
Please feel free to add your own concerns by emailing gsra@geo3550.org
updated January 16, 2011
