HRS4R: Human Resources Strategy for Researchers

The University of Cologne (UoC) is committed to the European Commission’s initiative to improve working conditions for researchers and to promote attractive and sustainable research careers within the European Research Area (https://european-research-area.ec.europa.eu/horizon-europe-support-research-careers). Enhancing employment conditions and career development opportunities is a key institutional priority.

The UoC has successfully implemented the European Charter for Researchers and was first awarded the HR Excellence in Research Award in 2019. The award was successfully renewed in 2025 following an on-site evaluation, during which international reviewers highlighted the UoC’s strong commitment to continuously improving recruitment and employment practices. In this context, the UoC strictly adheres to the principles of Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment (OTM-R). Current measures and strategic objectives are detailed in the Revised Action Plan 2024.

The implementation of HRS4R is coordinated by the Vice Rectorate for Academic Career and Staff Development (https://www.uni-koeln.de/en/university/at-a-glance/rectorate/vice-rector-of-academic-career-and-staff-development). The Vice-Rector chairs the steering committee, which also includes the Rector, the Vice-Chancellor, and the Head of Human Resources. Researchers are actively involved through the Committee on HR Matters of Academic Staff, which supports the HRS4R process in an advisory role. The commission comprises representatives of all university status groups, including students, researchers at all career stages, and administrative staff.