UCL given HR Excellence in Research Award by the European Commission

The award acknowledges UCL's robust and public implementation strategy for improving the career development and management of researchers.

Nigel Waugh, Director of Human Resources at UCL, said: "Our research staff are vital to UCL's success. We have been working hard in HR to make sure our researchers are supported in developing their careers and skills by aligning UCL's HR policies and practices to the principles of the Concordat.  I am delighted that this has been acknowledged by the European Commission with the award of the HR Excellence in Research badge."

The award focuses on the implementation of the principles of the Vitae Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers.

Professor David Price, UCL Vice-Provost (Research), said: "A core element of UCL's mission is the development of research leaders.

"A large part of that is about the excellence of the academic environment and facilities, but also important is providing people with the support and opportunities that they need to realise their potential and develop their careers, whether that be at UCL or elsewhere, and whether in academia or another field that draws upon their research skills. This award recognises what we already offer and how we are committed to build on it."

UCL joins 76 other UK higher education institutions and a further 61 European organisations with the award. 

Ellen Pearce, Director of Vitae and the UK representative on the European Commission HR Strategy Group said: "There is evidence that the HR Excellence in Research Award process has a significant role in improving human resource management for researchers right across Europe."

The announcement was made at the Vitae 'HR strategies for researchers: future directions and good practice across Europe' event in London on Friday 24 May 2013.

Links

Staff Development for Researchers Website
Vitae concordat to support the career development of researchers