HR Excellence in Research

The HR Excellence in Research process, formerly known as the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R), is a European process that supports the implementation of the principles of the European Charter for Researchers, contributing to better conditions for conducting research and improved career opportunities for researchers.

As part of this process, organisations review their practices, identify areas for improvement and define concrete measures through an Action Plan. These measures may cover, among other areas, ethics and integrity, equality and inclusion, open science, recruitment and career progression, working conditions and career development.

The HR Excellence in Research Award is granted by the European Commission to organisations that endorse the European Charter for Researchers, commit to implementing its principles and demonstrate progress towards their implementation.

Our commitment

At CCMAR, we believe that the quality of research also depends on working conditions that enable researchers to develop their work and careers in a fair, inclusive and stimulating environment.

In March 2024, CCMAR formally endorsed the Charter and began its journey within the HR Excellence in Research process.

To lead this work, a Working Group was established, supported by a Steering Committee. Throughout this process, and with the contribution of the CCMAR research community, existing practices were reviewed, areas for improvement were identified, and concrete actions were defined to address the needs identified.

In September 2026, CCMAR received the HR Excellence in Research Award, granted by the European Commission in recognition of its commitment to implementing the principles of the European Charter for Researchers.

Receiving the Award does not mark the end of the process, but rather the beginning of a new phase of implementation and continuous improvement. CCMAR will continue to monitor the implementation of its Action Plan, assess progress and, whenever necessary, define new measures that contribute to an increasingly fair and inclusive research environment that supports the development of research careers.

See here an overview of the different phases of the HR Award process (EURAXESS / European Commission).

Working Group

Plan for Gender Equality

CCMAR's Gender Equality Plan (GEP) sets out objectives, measures and indicators to promote equality between women and men in all areas of the institution's activity.
This plan complies with the European Commission's requirements for EU-funded research entities and focuses on:

• ensuring equal opportunities in recruitment, career progression and access to leadership positions;
• promoting a safe, inclusive working environment free from harassment or discrimination;
• ensuring a work-life balance;
• systematically integrating the gender perspective into research and project management.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

In addition to the gender perspective, CCMAR is developing an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy that more broadly covers all dimensions of diversity, including, among others, nationality, age, social origin, culture, orientation and identity, health conditions and disability.
This policy aims to:

• promote respect and appreciation for the diversity of all people in the CCMAR community;
• prevent and combat any form of discrimination, harassment or intolerance;
• ensure fair and transparent internal processes, from recruitment to team management;
• create conditions for everyone to have a voice, participation and equal opportunities for development.

Working Group