Mendel University in Brno was the first Czech university which received the prestigious HR Excellence in Research Award from the European Commission for excellence in the care of human resources in a scientific environment. 

On 6 October 2017, Mendel University in Brno subscribed to the principles enshrined in the European Charter for Researchers and in the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter and the Code). The aim of the University was to obtain the certificate, which is awarded by the European Commission to research institutions that implement the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) based on the above principles. 

In 2018, we prepared an internal GAP analysis to compare the current practice at the University with the Charter and the Code, and at the same time prepared an action plan for the implementation of measures aimed at fulfilling the principles enshrined in the Charter and the Code. 

Currently, the university has already completed the second phase of HRS4R implementation, is continuing with another three-year action plan and is awaiting the physical visit of the European Commission assessors who will assess the level of implementation and decide whether we can keep the award for the next period.

The European Charter for Researchers was revised in 2023. The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers was incorporated into the Charter.

Benefits of HRS4R implementation for the University and Researchers

• Increasing University prestige and attractiveness for researchers.

• Linking to a pan-European network of research organisations.

• International attractivity and visibility.

• Obtaining funds for research from European and national research supporting programmes - advantages in the TAČR programs, HORIZON 2020 and others.

• Improving the quality of care for human resources.

• Creating conditions for a more attractive career in research and development at the University.

• Ensuring transparent recruitment and selection of new researchers.

• Acknowledgement of experience from mobilities in the public and private sectors.

• Development of professional growth of researchers.

Schedule

HRS4R coordinators:

Renata Denková, Head of the HR Development Department, tel. +420 773 741 158, e-mail: renata.denkova@mendelu.cz

Tereza Ondráčková, HR Specialist, tel. +420 770 153 601, e-mail: tereza.ondrackova@mendelu.cz