HR Excellence in Research Award retained
The University has successfully retained - for the second time - its HR Excellence in Research Award from the European Commission.
The Award demonstrates a university’s commitment to improving the working conditions and career development for research staff, which will in turn improve the quantity, quality and impact of research for the benefit of UK society and the economy.
The panel that reviewed Leeds’ submission judged that the University is making genuine progress in supporting the employment and professional development of research staff. We have been particularly commended for our:
- work on Open Contracts after three years
- Career Architect programme
- Guidance on the Employment of Research Staff
These are all seen as examples of good practice from which other universities can learn.
The panel also praised SDDU investment in a specialist research staff trainer, the engagement of University leaders, and the University’s support for the Careers in Research Online and Principal Investigators and Research Leaders Surveys.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, David Hogg, says: “Renewal of our HR Excellence in Research Award after four years demonstrates that our continuing support for researchers is producing real advances in professional and career development and is contributing to the University's goal to undertake life-changing research that produces true social and economic outcomes.
“While there is more work to be done, we are delighted that the European Commission has recognised our commitment to progress and has highlighted areas of very good practice at the University. We will continue to listen to and to work with researchers, principal investigators and all those who support research staff in their roles in order to provide the best possible working environment in which research can thrive.”
Read more about the HR Excellence in Research Award.
Read more about the University’s Award submission.
Read more about the University’s support for research staff.