The increasing gaps in faculty pay between private and public universities are threatening the ability of public universities to recruit and retain qualified faculty members, according to a report released this week.

The American Association of University Professors said in its report that large disparities between faculty salaries at the two university levels have led to core faculty member loss at many public universities.

“The issue can be viewed in two ways: as both a matter of university priorities as well as an issue of priorities on the state and even federal levels,” said John Curtis, the association’s director of research. “The state should be providing the funding for the best staff, faculty, researchers and graduate programs.”

Over the last several decades, public institution funding has decreased as a result of the importance placed on higher education at the state and national levels, Curtis said.

“This has been a long-standing concern,” said Thomas Palaima, a classics professor. “Every UT president has spoken about the need to increase salaries and benefits for the faculty and graduate students.”

Private universities are often able to provide payment and benefits for faculty that public schools cannot, according to the report. Unlike many public universities, private institutions can provide higher salaries, partner benefits and even college tuition for the children of faculty members.