The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is a European Commission initiative designed to enhance research careers and improve working conditions for researchers across Europe. Institutions that adopt this strategy align their policies with the principles set out in the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (formerly known as the Charter & Code).
The importance of the Award for the Alliance
The European Commission recognises with this Award the institutions which make progress in aligning their human resources policies to the 4 pillars and 20 principles of the Charter & Code, based on a customized action plan/HR strategy. The Alliance understands the importance of the HRS4R award, which supports research institutions and funding organisations in the implementation of the Charter & Code in their policies and practices.
Although members have not yet obtained the HR Excellence in Research Award, the Alliance is fully committed to each member individually achieving this recognition. Moreover, it is dedicated to aligning their strategies into a unified action plan, thereby ensuring the successful implementation of the reforms.
Next Steps
The Alliance is currently in the initial phase, looking forward to ensuring all C&C endorsement letters and starting the institutions’ process of carrying out an internal assessment to identify strengths and areas for improvement (Gap Analysis and OTM-R checklist), followed by the submission of an Initial Action Plan.
The Alliance’s main objectives with this initiative (outlined in WP 10 – People) are to enhance competitiveness and drive institutional reform in research and innovation (R&I), particularly in widening countries and less research-intensive institutions. This involves not only building critical mass through upskilling and promoting knowledge creation and exchange but also modernizing research careers and assessment frameworks.
To this end, the Alliance promotes a coordinated and strategic approach, ensuring that all partners progress collectively towards the principles set out in the HRS4R. The overarching goal is to drive meaningful institutional reforms and advance researchers’ career development, working conditions, and evaluation processes across all participating institutions. By encouraging shared commitment and mutual learning, the initiative strengthens institutional capacity and alignment, paving the way for long-term, sustainable improvements in research environments.
