Fred Hutch lays off employees, eliminates open positions due to pandemic

SEATTLE — Fred Hutch announced Tuesday that 76 employees are being laid off and 81 positions are being eliminated due to economic impact from the coronavirus pandemic.

The layoffs are the next steps in other cost-cutting measures the research center has been implementing since March. The latest cuts are all from the administrative division.

In a statement, Fred Hutch said the center estimates a revenue shortfall of $50 million due to the pandemic.

“Our approach to budget planning throughout this pandemic has centered on supporting Fred Hutch research using the resources we have in the most efficient way. The steps we have taken, including today’s reduction in staffing, are all aimed at preserving the strength of our science and our ability to fulfill our mission far into the future,” wrote Dr. Thomas J. Lynch Jr., the president and director of Fred Hutch.

All laid-off employees will receive a severance package that includes pay, health benefit continuation and job search support.

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