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Arizona State University

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Toxic - Graduate Research Assistant Arizona State University Employee Review

1.0
22 May 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Unprofessionalism of staff can lead to a laid-back atmosphere that can be a nice breather behind the toxic abuse.

Cons

Absolutely toxic and abusive atmosphere in the STEM, especially life science, departments. Staple abusive advisors/PI's that do not care about students development or even their health and well-being in the workplace. Literally anyone gets tenure, even the most incompetent PI's who haven't even graduated a single PhD student. Stay away.

Explore other reviews about Arizona State University

5.0
30 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good research environment and great teachers

Cons

Long hours working on research

2.0
29 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Competitive pay for some positions, some great colleagues.

Cons

The "culture" in some non academic departments is incredibly toxic. Employees often see others as competitors and some will try to throw others under the bus to avoid being in trouble from senior leaders. It is slow to get any work done if you need upper admin approval and often time work that you have created and completed is thrown away and never looked at again. Personalities of some administrators is very fake and friendly, when they will cut you with no regard or thoughts. The senior administrators of ASU act in a cult like manner and tightly control many goals, works, etc. You will most often have little to no freedom to accomplish the goals that you know would be best for your department because you spend an inordinate amount of time on projects deemed important to senior leaders, that have little to no impact but padding a report for someone in Fulton. Culture is extremely toxic in many areas, and senior leaders refuse to listen to those serving and trying to provide feedback. There is heavy turnover in many areas, while adminstrators turn a blind eye to it and chalk it up to "normal" turnover. Many mid level managers end up sick, stressed, seeking new employment, or taking FMLA to try to deal with the stress and trauma. You will have little opportunity for advancement unless you move departments regularly, or by hunkering down to be a lackey. Routinely expect last minute requirements and expectations, budget cuts without notice, and little to no professional development or support. Depending on the area you may also deal with difficult students/parents who are not held accountable for their actions.

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