Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R)
The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is an initiative of the European Commission aimed at improving the policies of research institutions to create a supportive, fair, and attractive environment for researchers. It is aligned with the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, promoting ethical research, transparent recruitment, career development, and work-life balance.
The New European Charter for Researchers (2023)
In December 2023, the European Commission adopted a revised version of the European Charter for Researchers, consolidating the Charter and the Code of Conduct for Recruitment into a comprehensive framework. The updated Charter includes 20 key principles grouped into four pillars:
- Ethics, Integrity, Gender, and Open Science
- Recruitment, Evaluation, and Career Progression
- Working Conditions and Institutional Practices
- Research Careers and Talent Development
Main aspects of the 2023 Charter:
- Adherence to the highest standards of ethics and integrity in research
- Promotion of open science, transparency, and data sharing
- Support for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Ensuring fair, transparent, and merit-based recruitment
- Supporting continuous career development and diverse pathways
- Improving working conditions and researchers' well-being
This updated framework reflects the EU's commitment to supporting a competitive, responsible, and inclusive research ecosystem.
Excellence in Human Resources for Research at USVT
The University of Life Sciences "King Michael I" from Timișoara (USVT) joined the HRS4R initiative as part of the third cohort of European institutions in 2012. Key milestones include:
- June 20, 2012: USVT signed the Declaration of Support for the European Charter and Code, publicly committing to uphold high standards for research careers. The letter was published on the European Commission's website.
- Since 2012: USVT has continuously developed and refined its policies to align with the Charter's principles.
- June 2024: The USVT Board of Directors decided to renew the university's support for the new European Charter for Researchers, updated in 2023.
- July – October 2024: USVT conducted a comprehensive survey among researchers and academic staff to collect feedback and identify improvement priorities.
- Subsequently, based on the survey report PDF(4.35 MB)opens in a new tab, USVT conducted a thorough Gap Analysis PDF(783.16 KB)opens in a new tab to identify strengths and areas needing development.
- Based on this analysis, USVT developed and published an Action Plan PDF(3.71 MB)opens in a new tab focused on key priorities to improve the academic environment and support researchers.
- April 11, 2025: USVT submitted a new Letter of Support PDF(387.27 KB)opens in a new tab to the European Commission, reaffirming the commitment to the updated Charter.
- June 2025: USVT submitted the HRS4R documents to the European Commission.
USVT's Vision for Research Excellence
USVT is dedicated to creating a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive research environment that promotes innovation and career development. By actively implementing HRS4R and adhering to the 2023 European Charter for Researchers, USVT strengthens its position as a competitive and responsible European research institution.