HR Excellence in Research (HRS4R)
The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is a tool launched by the European Commission to support universities, research institutions and research funders in the implementation of European Charter for Researchers and a Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. One of the main recommendations of these two documents is the adoption of Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment of Researchers (OTM-R). OTM-R makes research careers more attractive, ensures equal opportunities for all candidates and facilitates mobility.
The European Commission recognizes with the 'HR Excellence in Research Award' those institutions which make progress in aligning their human resources policies to the 40 principles of the Charter & Code, based on a customized action plan/HR strategy.
HR Excellence in Research at Esade
Esade is committed to attracting, developing and retaining research talent in accordance with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. As part of this commitment, Esade participates in the HR Excellence in Research (HRS4R) process, through which the European Commission recognises institutions that align their human resources policies with the Charter & Code principles and adopt Open, Transparent and Merit-Based Recruitment (OTM-R) practices.
Esade was first awarded the HR Excellence in Research Award in July 2020, following submission of its Gap Analysis and Action Plan. An interim review was conducted in 2022. In 2026, Esade is completing the Award Renewal, reaffirming its long-term commitment to a research environment that supports researchers at all career stages — from doctoral candidates (R1) to senior faculty (R4) — and promotes excellence, fairness, diversity and integrity.
The documents below set out Esade's HR strategy and action plans across all phases of the process.