NUPU-UE believes that Postdocs and Research Associates deserve fair recognition and benefits for our labor, and the time to achieve this is NOW. We are essential members of the university workforce, yet our importance is not adequately reflected in our pay, benefits, or working conditions. Together as NUPU-UE, we’re fighting for the rights and resources we all deserve—because these aren’t privileges, they’re necessities:

Support for International Workers

Competitive Pay

Professional Development & Comprehensive Employee Benefits

Workplace Protections

Health & Childcare Benefits

International Workers:

Similar to many institutions, a majority of Postdocs and Research Associates at Northwestern are international workers, making up over 70% of the workforce. As international employees, we play a vital role in advancing Northwestern's research and teaching missions—not only through our labor but also by sharing our diverse experiences and enriching the university's culture.

However, we encounter additional challenges and financial pressures related to our visa status, and for many, our legal residency in the United States is directly linked to our employment at Northwestern.

By establishing a union, we can collectively negotiate with the University to protect against these vulnerabilities and alleviate financial burdens related to immigration.

Click below for example wins for International Workers from other academic unions and more information on our rights to organize

Click here for more info on International Workers Rights & Issues!

Our mission is to represent and advocate for postdoctoral research workers, while building an inclusive and collective community, in the pursuit of social and economic justice.

Read our full mission statement

Follow NUPU-UE on social media for updates!

@nupostdocunion