The HSR4R strategy

The HSR4R strategy is a tool put into practice by the European Commission to provide support to Research Institutions in the application of the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for contracting researchers (C&C):

1. The European Charter for Researchers brings together a series of principles on the responsibilities and rights of researchers and Research Institutions.

2. The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers consists of a series of general principles and demands which must follow the Research Institutions when appointing or recruiting researchers.

The C&C consists of a series of forty principles grouped into four sections: ethical aspects, recruitment, working conditions and training.

The correct application of the C&C makes institutions more attractive for researchers, thus improving the attractiveness of national research systems, and contributing to the development of the labour market and the consolidation of the European Research Area.

The institutions that commit to applying the C&C principles, using the guidelines of the HRS4R strategy as a support, are awarded by the European Commission with the HR Excellence in Research seal. 

The HR Excellence in Research seal identifies the universities and institutions that generate and provide support in a stimulating and favourable environment for research.