Human Resourcium

The heaviest element known to science was recently discovered by physicists. The element, tentatively named HumanResourium, has no protons or electrons and thus has an atomic number of 0. However, it does have 1 neutron, 125 assistant neutrons, 75 vice neutrons and 111 assistant vice-neutrons, for an atomic number of 312. The 312 particles are held together by a force that involves the continuous exchange of meson-like particles called morons.

Since it has no electrons, HumanResourium is inert. However, it can be detected chemically, as it impedes every action with which it comes in contact. According to the discoverers, one reaction that normally requires less than one second was extended to four days by the presence of a minute amount of HumanResourium.

HumanResourium has a half-life of approximately three years, at which time it does not actually decay but instead undergoes a reorganization in which assistant neutrons, vice-neutrons and assistant vice-neutrons exchange places. Some studies suggest that its atomic mass actually increases in each reorganization.

Research at other laboratories indicates that HumanResourium occurs naturally in the atmosphere. It tends to concentrate at certain points, such as government agencies, large corporations, and universities, and can usually be found in the newest, best appointed, and best maintained buildings.

Scientists point out that HumanResourium is known to be toxic at any level of concentration and can easily destroy any productive reaction where it is allowed to accumulate. Attempts are being made to determine how HumanResourium can be controlled to prevent irreversible damage, but results to date are not promising.

Branch sends Donation to Sussex Members

Yesterday the Branch voted to send a donation to the hardship fund of Sussex University.

The donation of £200 was to be the start of a concerted fundraising that would see us commit itself to supporting the ongoing strike of our colleagues at this University.

The branch also agreed to send a delegation to the picket line in the near future - anyone interested please contact Tony Britton.

RPI Hits 5%

You might have seen two communications from the chair of governors and the acting VC recently commending us on our hard work and how well the university has managed its finances - the good news is that following today's announcement of the September RPI we can look forward to a 5% pay increase.
Not sure whether the news will reach our payroll in time for this months pay date but it will be backdated from October 1st - we will be following this up with HR.

You will see if you look at the details in the UCEA statement that there is provision for Universities suffering financial hardship to defer payment - I would imagine that as we are going through IIP accreditation that might influence their decision not to !

That may also be dependent upon whether the University had it’s money in an Icelandic Bank though.