Earlier this week, fliers threatening a number of our faculty members were discovered at a Santa Cruz coffee house and turned over to police.
The threatening leaflets contained the researchers' names, addresses, and other personal information. These researchers were singled out because of the medical or health-related research they do using animals or insects. Earlier incidents of anti-research harassment have involved acts of intimidation, trespassing, vandalism, and even a physical attack.
I want to be clear and unambiguous about how unacceptable these threats are. We will continue to support researchers who face harassment and intimidation in any way we can. The personal safety and security of all our faculty, staff, and students is paramount. I believe strongly in working diligently toward a safer environment on campus and in the community for researchers to conduct their scholarly activities.
Research at UCSC and all UC campuses is conducted with the highest standards of care, safety, and health in full compliance with ethical and legal principles. In December, I joined the nine other chancellors and UC leadership in a statement supporting research using animals for the purposes of advancing human knowledge and improving human and animal health. The statement can be found at:
www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/article/16956
Santa Cruz police and the FBI are investigating the incidents. We all must heighten our awareness. Please be aware of your surroundings on campus and in your neighborhoods. Don't hesitate to contact UC Santa Cruz police if you have concerns or if something seems amiss.
