HRS4R: A label and an opportunity to strengthen our human resources policy

The HRS4R label aims to support higher education and research institutions in implementing the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.

Created to promote the harmonization of research practices among European institutions, this label has become a key marker of attractiveness and European recognition. It can also serve as a strategic lever for transformation, in line with the dynamic already undertaken by the University.

The Charter and Code comprise 40 principles, structured around four main themes:

• Ethical principles and professional responsibilities
• Recruitment, career development, and mobility
• Working and safety conditions, professional environment
• Training and continuous professional development

Developing a labeling application requires conducting a comprehensive diagnosis of current practices related to these four themes, and designing an action plan that actively involves the entire University community.

Presentation of the Approach

The University officially launched its labeling process on September 16, 2024, with the submission of its Letter of Commitment, affirming its intention to engage in a co-constructed and ambitious approach. From this date, the University has one year to submit its full application file.

In this spirit of co-construction, a consultation phase will be conducted starting in November 2024. The entire research community of the University will be invited to contribute to the discussions, in order to anchor the approach in the realities and concerns of those who bring it to life.

The Action Plan, a central component of the application, will be built upon the outcomes of this consultation phase. It will reflect both the University’s specific ambitions and the technical framework required by the label.

Once the label is granted, the University will enter a cycle of implementation and evaluation, structured in 24-month and 36-month phases, requiring continuous monitoring and updating of the action plan to remain aligned with the evolving challenges of research.