About HR Excellence in Research

General Information

In 2005, the European Commission adopted two documents: the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. Their aim was to establish common standards for working conditions and research career development in Europe, as well as to enhance the attractiveness of research careers in the European Union.

The European Charter for Researchers defined the rights and responsibilities of researchers, employers and research funders. It addressed, among other things, research conduct, research career development, mobility, access to training, employment conditions and respect for ethical standards. The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers focused on the principles of open, transparent and non-discriminatory recruitment, promoting equal treatment of candidates and transparency in recruitment and selection procedures.

Until 2023, both documents served as the basis for the implementation of the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R), under which the European Commission grants institutions the HR Excellence in Research Award. The strategy supports the creation of a favourable working environment for researchers and the improvement of human resources management processes in research performing organisations.

As of January 2024, the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers have been replaced by a single, updated document – the new European Charter for Researchers. The new Charter organises and integrates the previous principles in one document and takes into account current challenges related to conducting research and developing a research career.

The current Charter is based on 20 key principles grouped under four pillars: Ethics, Integrity, Gender and Open Science; Researchers’ Assessment, Recruitment and Progression; Working Conditions and Practices; and Research Careers and Talent Development. Compared with the previous framework, greater emphasis is placed, among other things, on open science, equality and inclusiveness, well-being, work-life balance, sustainable research careers, talent development, and modern and transparent approaches to research assessment. The new Charter is now the main reference document for research performing organisations implementing HRS4R and applying for, obtaining or maintaining the HR Excellence in Research Award.

More information about the new Charter is available on the EURAXESS website.