UC and UAW Begin Negotiations for New Contracts for Graduate Student Researchers and Academic Student Employees

The University of California began negotiations on July 8 with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union for a new collective bargaining agreement for Graduate Student Researchers (GSRs) and Academic Student Employees (ASEs). UC’s primary objective is to reach an agreement that supports and furthers our workforce and UC’s mission.  

Before bargaining, the two parties agreed on ground rules and selected some bargaining dates and locations, alternating between Northern and Southern California. During the July 8 session, UC presented four proposals to UAW, which detailed contract article language on grievance and arbitration, required training and orientation, workspace and instructional support, and employment files and evaluation. UAW presented five proposals to UC, including grievance and arbitration, employment files and evaluation, respectful work environment, non-discrimination, and immigration.  

The two parties will continue to meet bimonthly to work through the contract terms, exchanging proposals and counterproposals until they reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Negotiations are anticipated to continue through the end of 2025, with the current contract set to expire on Jan. 1, 2026. The next bargaining session is scheduled for July 22.