The European Charter for Researchers is a set of general principles relating to the responsibilities and rights of researchers and the institutions in which they work, considering the creation of a stimulating working environment, favourable to the production, transfer and sharing of knowledge, as well as the professional development of researchers.
The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers establishes the requirements and quality standards that the recruitment process must meet: open, transparent and merit-based.
HR Excellence In Research award is attributed to organisations that, following an internal analysis (Gap Analysis) of compliance with the 40 principles of the Charter & Code, define a set of actions (Action Plan) to improve their practices. Certified organisations gradually implement the measures set out in the Action Plan, followed by a interim-assessment after 24 months, and then successive renewal cycles valid for 36 months, with on-site visits on alternate cycles. On December 18, 2023, the European Charter for Researchers (20 principles) was published through the "Council Recommendation on a European framework to attract and retain research, innovation and entrepreneurial talents in Europe", replacing the Charter & Code (40 principles).
The European Commission has established four Groups of Researchers, depending on their level of independence, experience and recognition:
- R1 - First Stage Researcher: researchers who carry out research under supervision until obtaining a PhD or an equivalent level of competence and experience;
- R2 - Recognised Researcher: researchers who have not yet established a significant level of independence in terms of developing their own research, attracting funding or directing a research group;
- R3 - Established Researcher: researchers who are independently capable of developing their own research, attracting funding and directing a research group;
- R4 - Leading Researcher: researchers with a strategic vision of their field of research who are recognized by their peers as leading figures.
HR Excellence in Research official website: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/hrexcellenceaward
Iscte was certified with the HR Excellence in Research European Award on 17 March 2025.
Currently, more than 50 Portuguese organisations have endorsed the principles of the Charter & Code, including higher education institutions, research institutes or laboratories; of these, only twelve are certified, with Iscte - University Institute of Lisbon being the first University to receive this distinction.
To consult all the organisations that hold the award, click here.
Find here.
