Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R)

Since September 2022, the University of Bremen holds the EU "HR Excellence in Research Award". With this award, the European Commission recognizes scientific institutions that offer scientists both good working conditions and an appropriate working environment.

The award is based on the principles of the "European Charter for Researchers" and the "Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers" adopted by EU in 2005 and requires an extensive evaluation process. By taking part in this process, the University of Bremen also emphasizes its international orientation and visibility.

In 2021, scientists at all career levels, administrative staff and interest groups jointly conducted a comprehensive status quo analysis and developed a catalog of actions based on this analysis.

The analysis and measures are based on a toolbox provided by the EU. The aim is to create an own "Human Resources Strategy for Researchers" (HRS4R) in a permanent, structured, responsible and participatory process together with scientists at all career levels, accompanied by quality management measures.

During the current implementation phase (2022-2024), the university is now implementing this catalog of actions and fosters its own HR strategy for researchers.

The implementation is monitored by a steering group with ongoing involvement of the Executive Board and several status groups. The current status is reported regulary to the Academic Senate. In the "Internal Review", which will be submitted to the European Commission by end of 2024, the steering group will reflect on current working conditions, the status of implementation as well as new measures and priorities for the next phase, the so-called "Renewal Phase".

During the "Renewal Phase" (from approx. beginning of 2025), the university will follow-up on measures from previous phases, initiate new measures and switch its HRS4R activities to the new "European Charter for Researchers" adopted by EU at the end of 2023.