I was recently laid off along with several others. While the experience was difficult at the time, I now feel very relieved to be away from this institute. The workplace culture is marked by unfairness, favoritism, and a lack of logical decision-making. The most serious issues stem from senior leadership, whose management has been deeply problematic. This is compounded by an unhelpful and cold HR department – the worst HR experience I have encountered in my career. When the institute was well funded, resources were spent without clear planning or accountability. Once funding became limited, many employees were laid off, while favoured individuals, some of whom do not even contribute to meaningful or productive work, were retained. This inconsistency speaks volumes about the institute’s priorities and leadership values. In retrospect, leaving this institute has been a positive outcome for me. I am truly relieved to have moved on.