HRS4R
The European Commission's Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) supports institutions in putting into practice the 40 principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. Institutions that complete the process successfully receive the HR Excellence in Research award. The aim is to make research careers in Europe more attractive, through good working conditions, career development and open, transparent and merit-based recruitment (OTM-R).
Our award
TU Dublin endorsed the Charter and Code on 22 December 2022, and the European Commission opened our case (2023IE48224) on 11 January 2023. The University was granted the HR Excellence in Research award in January 2024. Our internal review for interim assessment was submitted in September 2026. The next stage is the award renewal, which includes a site visit by external assessors.
Our strategy and documents
- HRS4R Internal Review for Interim Assessment and revised Action Plan (2026)*
- OTM-R Checklist
- Original Gap Analysis and Action Plan (2024)
Our action plan covers four areas: ethical and professional aspects, recruitment and selection, working conditions, and training and development. Progress is overseen by an HRS4R Steering Committee and delivered by an Implementation Committee, coordinated by the Research Engagement and Impact Office.
Get involved
Researchers at every career stage can help shape the strategy. Share ideas or concerns at hrs4r@tudublin.ie.
Why it matters
- It is visible, independently assessed evidence of the University's commitment to good working conditions and career development for researchers.
- It supports our aim of attracting, developing and retaining excellent research staff.
- It is recognised by research funders in Ireland and across Europe.
- It connects us with other award-holding institutions to share good practice.
Further information
- HR Excellence in Research award (EURAXESS): https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/hrs4r
- European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (2005), on which our award is based: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/sites/default/files/brochures/am509774cee_en_e4.pdf
- In December 2023 these were replaced by a new European Charter for Researchers. The University will align its approach as the HRS4R process moves to the new Charter: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/hrexcellenceaward/european-charter-researchers
- For queries, email hrs4r@tudublin.ie
*Some browsers have issues with embedded pdf links. This file is best downloaded and viewed in Adobe Acrobat.