Background and Challenges of the Initiative
An HR Strategy to Support Research and Attractiveness
Committed to continuously improving its human resources practices for research, Aix-Marseille University is implementing the European HRS4R (Human Resources Strategy for Researchers) strategy in line with its values of excellence, openness, and responsibility.
This initiative aims to ensure a stimulating, ethical, and inclusive work environment for all research staff, based on the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
The HRS4R label serves as a key driver for enhancing the university’s appeal, fostering transparent and equitable recruitment practices, supporting the professional development of staff, and promoting high-quality working conditions.
A Collective and Structuring Approach
The implementation of the HRS4R strategy involves all stakeholders within the institution: governance bodies, administrative departments, research units, doctoral schools, research staff, and institutional partners.
This collective effort makes it possible to identify priority areas for improvement and to develop an operational action plan that addresses current challenges in research and higher education.
The initiative is specifically aligned with the following objectives:
- Promote open, transparent, and competency-based recruitment procedures;
- Strengthen support for career development and skills building;
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion;
- Improve working conditions and quality of life at work;
- Support scientific integrity and responsible research practices;
- Develop an attractive research environment at the national and international levels.
A Long-Term Commitment
Through the HRS4R initiative, Aix-Marseille University reaffirms its commitment to placing research staff at the heart of its development and innovation strategy.
Regular monitoring of the actions undertaken, evaluation of the results achieved, and ongoing dialogue with the academic communities ensure a sustainable improvement in HR practices and strengthen the quality of the research environment offered by the institution.
This initiative also contributes to Aix-Marseille University’s European and international influence by consolidating its position as a committed, responsible, and attractive research university.
Spotlight on the Working Groups
Useful Links
Key Milestones of the Initial Phase
- June 1, 2019:President Yvon Berlandsenta letter to the EC requesting AMU’s official commitment
- June 27, 2019:Official launch of the initiative
- September 23, 2019: Kickoff meeting for the five working groups that had been formed
- January 2020: Renewed commitment from the University viaa letter from President Eric Berton and incorporation of the priorities of AMU’s new governance structure into the action plan, particularly regarding quality of life at work, engagement and accountability, gender equality, and career development.
- January 2021: Presentation to the labor unions and AMU governing bodies
- February 1, 2021: General presentation to the entire academic community
- April 29, 2021: Awarded the certification
- April 27, 2023: Certification renewed
- July 2024: Pilotof the OTMR policy with laboratories
- September 2024: Survey of research staff
- December 2024: Rollout of the OTMR policy
- First half of 2025: General presentations to the scientific community during the research campus tour (5 dates)
- September 2025: General presentation to labor unions and AMU governing bodies
- September 26, 2025: General presentation to all unit directors
Contact
hrs4r@univ-amu.fr