HRS4R

This recognition reflects our commitment to the continuous improvement of our human resources policies

The HRS4R strategy (Human Resources Strategy for Researchers) is a tool developed by the European Commission to support universities, research institutions, and research‑funding organizations in implementing the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. Its objective is to contribute to the development of an attractive European labour market for researchers.

The Charter and the Code of Conduct are recommendations from the European Commission to the Member States, who are invited to apply them voluntarily.

• European Charter for Researchers: the European Charter for Researchers is a set of general principles and requirements that define the roles, responsibilities, and rights of researchers as well as of employers and funding bodies.
• Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers: the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers highlights the importance of open and transparent recruitment procedures, as well as diverse and experienced selection committees.

Since the Foundation is committed to improving researchers’ working conditions, in March 2021 we applied for endorsement of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.

The “HR Excellence in Research (HRS4R)” award certifies and supports universities and institutions as contributors to an attractive European labour market for researchers. It also acknowledges the institution’s commitment to continuous improvement in establishing fair and transparent recruitment procedures, attracting talent, and fostering research careers within the European framework.

The main phases of the HRS4R process are as follows:

• Initial phase: approval of the Charter & Code and Notification of Commitment.
• Implementation phase: preparation of a Gap Analysis and a Human Resources Action Plan, which includes improvements to align our human resources strategy with the principles of the European Charter and Code (Charter & Code).
• Initial evaluation by the European Commission through an external Evaluation Committee.
• Intermediate evaluation: conducting an internal analysis and an external assessment (two years after the initial HRS4R award).
• Recognition Renewal Phase: carried out five years after the initial HRS4R award.
• Continuous improvement and quality‑enhancement and evaluation phases (renewal cycle every three years).

Currently, 585 organisations and institutions hold this award, including 136 Spanish organisations.

At the end of 2023, ISABIAL carried out a new analysis of its alignment with the 40 principles of the C&C in preparation for the HRS4R Intermediate Evaluation. As a result, the Institute developed the Revised Action Plan in order to continue progressing in the process and achieve continuous improvement in its human resources policies.