Human resources strategy for researchers

Human Resources Strategy for Researchers and the "HR Excelence in Research Award"

In June 2022, the European Commission (EC) confirmed the commitment of the University of Primorska (UP) to actively implement the European Charter for Researchers and a Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code) in its operations. The Charter & Code contains 40 general principles on ethical and professional aspects, recruitment and selection, working conditions and social security, and training and development of researchers. Institutions that successfully endorse the principles of the Charter & Code in their human resources policies are awarded with the “HR Excellence in Research Award”.

On May 12, 2023, UP has received the HR Excellence in Research Award.

By obtaining the “HR Excellence in Research Award”, UP contributes to the EC's efforts to create a Common Research Area. The award gives the institution external visibility and credibility, both for national authorities and funders, as well as for researchers from abroad, and ensures alignment with EC funding requirements. At the same time, the award signifies membership in a wider network of internationally recognized research institutions and the possibility of exchanging good practices within the European University network.

At the institutional level, the “HR Excellence in Research Award” promotes the intrinsic motivation of employees, as its acquisition implies the identification and improvement of established practices in the recruitment and retention of quality staff, the networking of UP departments and members, a public commitment to ensuring optimal conditions for research, and also contributes to the awareness of career opportunities and the international context for employees.

Overview of the procedure for obtaining the “HR Excellence in Research Award”

*Phase*	*Date*	*Action*	*Document*
*Preparatory phase*	25^th May 2022	At its 28^th session, the UP Senate adopted the decision to initiate the process for the preparation of the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers and the acquisition of the “HR Excellence in Research Award”. At the same time UP Senate appointed a coordinator for the process and a working group for the implementation of the HR strategy, as well as a contact person for the EC.	UP Senate's decision
	25^th May 2022	The UP Senate adopted the document: “Classification of researchers within the four levels in career development (R1-R4)”.	Classification of researchers within the four levels in career development (R1-R4).
	2^nd June 2022	The EC acknowledged UP's endorsement of the 40 principles of the Charter & Code Principles.	Endorsement Letter
*The phase of design and implementation of the HR strategy for researchers at UP*	15^thNovember 2022	The Rector of UP issued the Instructions on employment /recruitment at UP (002-31/22).	Instructions on employment / recruitment at UP (002-31/22).
	14^thDecember 2022	At its 34^th session the UP Senate adopted the HR strategy for researchers at the UP.	GAP Process description Action Plan OTM-R Checklist
	12^th April 2023	At its 38th regular session, the KDD UP adopted Guidelines for planning activities under the Annual Work Programmes of individual Members, on the basis of which will strenghten support for career development of researchers	Guidelines for planning activities under the Annual Work Programmes of individual Members which will strengthen support for career development of researchers
*Assessment by the European Commission*	10^thJanuary 2023	Submission of the final version of the documents of the HR Strategy to the EC for assessment.
*Outcome of the Assessment by the European Commission*	12^th May 2023	HR Excellence in Research Award granted to University of Primorska	EC Consensus Report

The process for obtaining the “HR Excellence in Research Award” and the implementation and execution of the HR Strategy for Researchers involved the active participation of the University's leadership, the departments of the University and faculties/institute as well as researchers of the UP. The adopted HR Strategy for Researchers is thus the result of a democratic debate among a wide range of key stakeholders from the whole of the UP.

By obtaining the “HR Excellence in Research Award”, University of Primorska acquired the right to use the “HR Excellence in Research” logo on its website and other communication channels.