Research Workers Reach Tentative Agreement with OHSU After Fight for Fair Wages

Portland, OR — Researchers at OHSU represented by Oregon AFSCME Research Workers United (RWU) have reached a tentative agreement with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) after more than a year of bargaining. The agreement comes after months of stalled negotiations, the declaration of impasse, a strong strike authorization vote and escalating pressure from 1,700 research workers who power OHSU’s scientific and medical breakthroughs every day.

The tentative agreement includes major gains for RWU members, including raises of 10.6% to 43% with an average of 13% over the course of the three year contract bringing the minimum wage to $24.09/hour in year three.

“These workers stood united for over a year demanding dignity, respect, and wages that reflect their expertise and value,” said Joe Baessler, Executive Director of Oregon AFSCME. “This agreement is proof that when workers stick together, they win.”

RWU members made clear throughout bargaining that a fair wage and a stable, livable workforce are essential to OHSU’s mission. Many RWU members have long earned far less than a living wage—even while performing grant-funded research that drives discoveries, treatments, and cures for communities in Oregon and beyond.

“We have spent our careers pushing science forward, but too many of us have struggled to afford living in the city where we work,” said Lynne Swarbrick, Senior Research Associate and RWU bargaining team member. “This contract makes real progress toward fixing that.”

The tentative agreement now goes to RWU members for a ratification vote. 

“RWU members never stopped fighting for a contract worthy of their contributions,” Baessler added. “This agreement strengthens research at OHSU—and strengthens the workers who make it possible.”

Research Workers United represents 1,700 researchers at OHSU who are at the forefront of life-changing medical discoveries. Oregon AFSCME believes in economic and social justice for all Oregon workers and their families. Our mission is to empower and unite workers to create change in their workplaces and communities. Oregon AFSCME represents over 40,000 workers in the public sector. Our members work for the State of Oregon in addition to counties, municipalities, OHSU and behavioral health nonprofits across Oregon, as well as self-employed child care providers. For more information, visit: www.OregonAFSCME.org.