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Since 2014, Politecnico di Milano has adhered to the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) promoted by the European Commission, obtaining the "HR Excellence in Research" award for its commitment to the principles of the European Charter for Researchers.
HRS4R is an initiative launched by the European Commission in 2008 to support research institutions in adopting the principles of the Charter and Code in order to improve HR policies and promote transparency, fairness, openness, and professional growth in researchers' careers. This strategy has enhanced the research environment at Politecnico, making it fairer, more attractive, and internationally competitive.
Over time, the adoption of the HRS4R strategy has strengthened the institutional framework at Politecnico. A shared culture of ethics, integrity, and professional responsibility has been consolidated, supported by dedicated tools such as the Code of Ethics, the Code for the Protection of Personal Dignity, and the creation of the interdisciplinary META group.
Recruitment processes have been enhanced in accordance with OTM-R principles, with clearer criteria and more transparent procedures. At the same time, efforts have been made to foster inclusive working conditions, promoting organizational well-being, work-life balance, and gender equality—also through UNI/PdR 125:2022 certification.
Finally, structured training programmes have been developed across all academic career stages, targeting PhD candidates, postdocs, and faculty members, including collaborations with international networks such as IDEA League, the European Talent Academy, and ENHANCE.
Documents
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HRS4R Implementation Report: Activities and Results since 2015
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OTM-R: Open, Transparent, Merit-based Recruitment at Politecnico di Milano
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European Charter for Researchers: what it is and why it matters
To strengthen and structure the EU research policy, in 2000 the European Community established the European Research Area as a strategic framework to promote collaboration, quality, and competitiveness at the international level. Among the key developments of this strategy are the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, published in 2005, which define shared principles and recommendations to safeguard rights, clarify responsibilities, and promote high-quality working conditions for researchers, employers, and funders across the EU.
In 2023, a revised version of the Charter updated and reinforced these principles, introducing 20 core principles organized into four pillars: ethics, evaluation and recruitment, working conditions, and talent development. The aim is to make research careers more attractive, inclusive, and sustainable, promoting mobility, diversified career paths, and high-quality working environments.
This common framework applies to all research sectors, public and private, at every career stage and regardless of contract type or organizational affiliation, to ensure better opportunities and working conditions for researchers across the European Union.
A Journey in Continuous Evolution
Politecnico di Milano started the process of joining the European HRS4R strategy in 2014, undertaking a systematic review of recruitment, training, and researcher support practices. In 2015, the European Commission awarded the University the label “HR Excellence in Research” in recognition of the progress made. The award was confirmed in 2017, and, following the on-site assessment visit carried out in 2022 by Commission experts, it was officially renewed.
To ensure full and effective implementation of the HRS4R strategy, the University established a governance model composed of a Working Group and a Steering Committee, involving representatives from various academic and administrative areas. Strategic administrative offices play a key role in translating the Charter’s principles into concrete operational actions.
By the end of 2025, both the Steering Committee and the Working Group will be renewed, in line with the upcoming POLIMI Strategic Plan and the 2026–2028 HRS4R Action Plan. This will ensure continued institutional relevance and updated representation in the governance structure.
Department Heads and the Academic Senate are also actively involved, ensuring a multi-level approach that includes faculty and researchers. In this way, the strategy is deeply integrated into the University's culture and policies, going beyond the scope of an isolated initiative.
Over time, the process has adapted to organizational changes and new priorities, evolving into an inclusive, dynamic, and coherent model. Today, it is fully aligned with the University’s overall strategic planning. This structure has fostered the consolidation of a more inclusive and responsible organizational culture.
Contatti
For any questions or requests related to the HRS4R process, you can contact HRS4R@polimi.it.