[PDADC-L] Merit Assessment for Research Associates and Senior Research Associates

PDAD&C#88, 2010-11
MEMORANDUM

To: Principals, Deans, Academic Directors and Chairs
From: Edith Hillan, Vice Provost Faculty & Academic Life
Date: June 29, 2011
Re: Merit Assessment for Research Associates and Senior Research Associates

Please ensure this memo is circulated to all Principal Investigators in your unit who have supervisory responsibilities for Research Associates and Senior Research Associates

Although the Compensation Restraint Act does not allow for across-the-board increases for non-unionized employees at the University of Toronto, the legislation does provide some scope for increases provided for by existing policy that are merit driven. We are, therefore, moving forward to implement merit increases for Research Associates and Senior Research Associates, for the July pay run.

Compensation for Research Associates and Senior Research Associates is governed by the Policy, Procedures and Terms and Conditions of Appointment for Research Associates (Limited Term) and Senior Research Associates which can be found at:

http://www.governingcouncil.utoronto.ca/Assets/Governing+Council+Digital+Assets/Policies/PDF/ppmar032003.pdf

The performance review process for Research Associates (limited term) and Senior Research Associates should be conducted as normal. Performance evaluation and assessment of RA/SRAs is an important component of career development. Principal Investigators should request an annual activity report and current curriculum vitae from each RA/SRA in their team. RA/SRAs should be asked to articulate the progress they have made during the year and comment on the significance of their activities, where needed. The report may be supplemented with other evidence as appropriate. Principal Investigators should provide each RA/SRA with a full performance appraisal.
The Policy, Procedures and Terms and Conditions of Appointment for Research Associates (limited term) and Senior Research Associates (2003) governs the salary increases for these two groups. In accordance with the policy and consistent with the past pattern of merit increases, the merit increase amounts this year are:-

For Research Associates (limited term)
* A merit increase of 0 - 3%, depending upon performance.

For Senior Research Associates
* a. Below the breakpoint of $67,100 - A merit increase of 0 - 4%, depending upon performance
* b. Above the breakpoint of $67,100 - A merit increase of 0 - 2.5%, depending upon performance.

RA/SRAs should be provided with a written statement of their salary increase and a full performance appraisal. All merit increases require the approval of the dean or division head.

It is preferable that this information is delivered to your Business Officer as soon as possible, but no later than July 21, 2011.