Swansea University retains HR Excellence in Research Award

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Swansea University has retained the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award following a six-year review process.

This UK-wide process enables UK higher education institutions to achieve the award which acknowledges their alignment with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for their Recruitment.

Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott, Swansea University’s lead on Research and Innovation said: “I am absolutely delighted that Swansea University has retained the HR Excellence in Research Award.  This is such important recognition for us and demonstrates our long-term commitment to the career development of our researchers. This prestigious award will definitely help us to recruit and retain the very best research staff.”

Twelve UK institutions retained the award after a six-year review of which Swansea was one, and three further institutions retained the award after a four year external review of HR Excellence in Research Award recognition.

There are currently 98 UK institutions with the award, more than double any other country in Europe.  In addition to the value it brings to an institution’s researcher community, the award also:

  • Contributes to strategic goals including improving the quality and impact of research, and contributing to institutional strategies to appoint, develop and retain the best staff, preparing researchers for wide employability and economic contribution;
  • Attracts funding, and is particularly useful for European funding;
  • According to the REF Environment Statement, the Award contributes to an environment that is conducive to producing research of world-leading quality, in terms of its vitality and sustainability;
  • Enhances perception of an institution as “one of the best.”

The HR Excellence in Research Award is managed by Vitae, the global leader in supporting the professional development of researchers, experienced in working with institutions as they strive for research excellence, innovation and impact.