European Commission recognition for developing research careers
The University is one of three UK universities to gain the HR Excellence in Research Award from the European Commission, announced at the Vitae Researcher Development International Conference in Manchester on 3 September. The UK now has 60 of its higher education institutions and one funding council recognised in this way.
Sarah Fulton, Director of Research and Innovation Services and Andrew Dodman, Director of Human Resources said: "The University of Sheffield is very proud to receive this award. Our researchers form the lifeblood of the University's research community. Bringing talent, passion and personality our researchers contribute immensely to addressing the world’s most important intellectual and practical problems and to enriching the University's culture.
"This award recognises the efforts of many members of our staff to further strengthening the University's provision for researchers, and our steadfast long-term commitment to developing research careers".
Ellen Pearce, Director of Vitae and the UK representative on the European Commission HR Strategy Group, made the announcements on behalf of the UK panel that reviews submissions: “Vitae are committed to enhancing the quality and output of the UK research base, through supporting the training and development of world-class researchers. We are delighted that a further three UK organisations have gained international recognition for their commitment to developing research careers.”
The award publicly signals the University's commitment to research staff on fixed-term research contracts and to further improving the environment for them. It acknowledges the University's alignment with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for their Recruitment. The award commits the University to implementing an action plan, which is published on the R&I Services website at: