By Eric Weddle, Journal & Courier
eweddle@jconline.com
Purdue University professor Phil Low knows his situation is unique.
The cancer researcher had an interesting 2009. Four out-of-state institutions attempted to woo him with promises of significant pay increases, scientific instruments and even a building.
"They were all substantial offers," said Low, a chemistry professor and a West Lafayette native who has been on campus since 1976. "I did not solicit. I did not apply."
While Low weighed his options -- based on what would be best for his lifework in developing treatments for cancer and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases -- Purdue began adjusting to a new economic landscape and a cost-cutting plan that left most employees without pay increases this year.
Of 8,825 employees who returned to work on the West Lafayette campus this school year, 84.1 percent saw no change in base pay.
Just 13.3 percent got more, and 2.5 percent saw their paycheck shrink.
Low, whose name rhymes with how, was one of the luckier ones.