RTI International cuts 150 more positions, 80 in NC, due to funding cuts

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. (WTVD) -- The non-profit research institute RTI International has announced more cuts due to a lack of federal funding.

Out of the 150 positions being cut, 80 of them are in North Carolina.

In a statement obtained by ABC11, the institute said more personnel changes could coming.

"As we adapt to evolving federal priorities, additional workforce changes may be necessary in the coming weeks to ensure RTI's long-term stability and impact. We are committed to supporting both our departing and remaining staff during this transition. RTI remains focused on advancing technical solutions and data-driven research that contribute to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous nation and world."

RTI announced indefinite layoffs back in the beginning of February.

According to the North Carolina Global Health Alliance, North Carolina is home to 900 global health institutions, generating tens of billions of dollars each year.

"This is devastating news, I want everyone to really understand that this is exact opposite what we were hoping for," said Brianna Clarke-Schwelm with the North Carolina Global Health Alliance.

She said at RTI and other institutions, that funding loses out on important local research--focused on improving science and health around the world..

"We're helping programs that support mothers when they're delivering babies, giving medication to people who need it, we're strengthening health systems around the world, we're actually providing food and all of that also benefits us here in America and keeps us safer," she said.

Clarke-Schwelm said losing talent in the science and health field would also impact the role of our area in the future, as a crown jewel of innovation.

"We're really a center for global health, we're a center for innovation and healthcare and not only are we going to lose this talent now that won't be able to contribute to that innovation going forward , we also don't have opportunities for the next generation of leaders, the next generation of people coming into this field, there are no jobs for them," she said.