Southampton’s European HR Excellence in Research Award confirmed
The University of Southampton has further demonstrated its long-term commitment to the career development of researchers by retaining the European Commission HR Excellence in Research award.
The Award is an important mechanism for implementing the principles of The Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers.
Presented by the European Commission and confirmed by the organisation Vitae, the Award validates Southampton’s commitment to improving the working conditions and career development for research staff, whilst continually striving to improve the quantity, quality and impact of research for the benefit of UK society and the economy. Southampton originally received the HR Excellence in Research Award in 2012 which was then retained in 2014 and 2016 following biennial reviews. This year, the University passed its six-year review.
Southampton’s key achievements in recent years include the development of careers advice specifically for research colleagues where there was none originally, the introduction of local mentoring schemes in faculties enabling more researchers to engage in mentoring, and Dean’s Award schemes have been established in most Faculties in recognition of the range of contributions researchers and teaching fellows make to University life. There have also been significant increases in the numbers of research staff offered University induction, appraisals and training in Equality and Diversity.
Dr Julie Reeves, Southampton’s Researcher Development Co-ordinator cited the University’s collegial approach to its support for researchers, achieved in part through the Career Development Researchers Working Group, chaired by Professor Mandy Fader. Dr Reeves also praised the contribution of Human Resources, the Public Engagement Research Unit, the International Office and the ICURe Programme (Innovation and Commercialisation and University Research) co-ordinated through SETsquared.
“We are proud to retain this award from the European Commission which underlines the hard work and commitment of staff and endorses our collegial approach to supporting the career development of our researchers,” said Dr Reeves.
Click here to find out more about the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers at the University.