Umeå University scored top marks for its research environment

The University works to ensure that researchers have good conditions for conducting high-quality research in a good work environment.

ImageMattias Pettersson

Work to continue to improve the working conditions and career opportunities for researchers is highly prioritised at Umeå University. And three years ago, the University was awarded the HR Excellence in Research Award by the EU for its successful work with the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R).

HRS4R is a process to ensure that a university implements the principles in the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. The main idea is to make it easy for researcher to start working here, progress in their research and conduct high-quality research under good working conditions.

Long-term investments yield results

With the award, the University has undertaken to continue to work on improvements and its progress is followed up through both internal and external assessments. In the last assessment, Umeå University was awarded the highest score on a three-grade scale, and the EU Commission highlighted examples of what the University does well:

“Overall, Umeå University has continued in the manner it started its HRS4R journey: a comprehensive, detailed and very well executed HRS4R process that is supported by a strong governance arrangement.”

“Continue the great work!”

One success factor that has contributed is our working method linked to existing processes and strategic planning.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor Katrine Riklund.

ImageMattias Pettersson

“We are naturally very pleased about the positive feedback. This is a good confirmation that our long-term work of collaborating within our organisation has paid off. One success factor that has contributed is our working method linked to existing processes and strategic planning,” says Pro-Vice-Chancellor Katrine Riklund, who is chair of the steering committee for HRS4R.

Shows ambition and qualitative research environments

Hopes are now high that more researchers and teachers will realise what an attractive employer Umeå University is.

“HRS4R is important from a recruitment perspective as it showcases our ambitions and the quality of our research environments. At the same time, working with HRS4R contributes to good collaboration within the University. It is a huge advantage that several parts of the organisation are working towards a shared goal,” says Carina Mattsson, human resources strategist and project manager of HRS4R.

The next assessment will take place in three years, in 2026, and until then, work continues according to the established action plan.