UCSD says it's not done after shedding 800 jobs

By James P. Sweeney
U-T Sacramento Bureau
2:00 a.m. June 4, 2009

LA JOLLA — As it absorbs deep budget cuts and braces for more, the University of California San Diego has quietly reduced its work force by more than 800 positions, or nearly 5.5 percent, in recent months, university officials disclosed yesterday.

The downsizing includes at least 172 layoffs, 222 positions left vacant and 428 that have been eliminated, said Stacie Spector, associate vice chancellor for communications.

More layoffs and unfilled vacancies are expected as UCSD and the balance of the higher education community come to grips with state funding reductions that could approach $2 billion for the UC, California State University and California Community Colleges systems.

“Our employees remain our No. 1 priority as does our commitment to education and research,â€