Implementation

At Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce (UJK), the implementation of the European Charter for Researchers (2023) is organised around four thematic pillars that guide the University’s participation in the HR Excellence in Research Award process. These pillars underpin continuous improvement in recruitment, working conditions, research ethics, and career development across all disciplines. UJK signed the Declaration of Support for the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers on 2 August 2016, affirming its commitment to open, transparent, and merit-based recruitment, equal opportunities, and fair working conditions for researchers at all career stages.

To coordinate implementation, a dedicated governance structure was established. The governance team, composed of representatives of research, teaching, and administrative staff, oversees institutional analyses, staff surveys, training initiatives, and progress monitoring within the HR Excellence in Research framework. The University’s Action Plan for the Implementation of the European Charter for Researchers defines measurable objectives in areas such as researcher mobility, evaluation and appraisal systems, gender equality, professional training, and open science.

Data show a steady increase in staff and doctoral mobility through Erasmus+ and international fellowship programmes. The Action Plan and related documents are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect the University’s evolving priorities and to ensure continuous alignment with European standards. Institutional regulations, including the Work Regulations, Remuneration Policy, and Social Benefits Fund Rules, guarantee transparent and equitable employment conditions for all researchers. Regular internal reviews and reports ensure accountability and sustained compliance with the principles of the Charter.

Through these actions, UJK fosters an open, ethical, and supportive research environment, consistent with the values of the European Research Area (ERA).

The four pillars guiding the University’s implementation of the Charter are:

• Ethics, Integrity, Gender and Open Science – promoting research integrity, academic freedom, gender equality, diversity, and sustainability.
• Researchers’ Assessment, Recruitment and Progression – ensuring fair, transparent, and merit-based recruitment, evaluation, and career advancement.
• Working Conditions and Practices – guaranteeing stable employment, adequate funding, fair remuneration, and a healthy research environment.
• Research Careers and Talent Development – supporting continuous professional growth, mentoring, and diverse career pathways.