Keele University has successfully retained the HR Excellence in Research Award.

The HR Excellence in Research Award is a European Commission award, managed in the UK by Vitae, which recognises good working conditions for researchers. Retaining the award demonstrates Keele University’s long-term commitment to the career development of researchers.

To obtain the award, institutions need to demonstrate a commitment to the UK Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers. The Concordat consists of seven principles which set out the standards that research staff can expect from their institution, as well as their responsibilities as researchers.

Professor David Amigoni, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at Keele University commented:

"This is an excellent outcome for the continuing development of our research culture and environment. Many thanks to everyone who engaged with the process of updating and evaluating the action plan; as ever, it was a great team effort across a university that is clearly research-led, and committed to enhancing the developmental opportunities that confirm that status. Particular thanks and congratulations are due to Rachel Westwood, the Researcher Developer, and Jackie Potter."

Keele University originally obtained the HR Excellence in Research Award in 2013. In order to successfully retain the award, the University completed a four-year review process, which consisted of the submission of a report, a new SMART action plan, and participation in an interview. The action plan demonstrates how collectively the activities and work of the various parts of the University provide support for research staff, and details areas where the University is actively making changes to further improve practices and the experiences of researchers at Keele. The action plan is available to view and download at www.keele.ac.uk/excellenceinresearch.  

Announcing the institutions who have successfully retained their awards, Vitae stated:

“​The HR Excellence in Research Award is an important mechanism for implementing the principles of the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, and in retaining their Awards these UK institutions have demonstrated their long-term commitment to the career development of researchers. There are currently 97 Vitae UK member institutions with the Award.”

Vitae is the global leader in supporting the professional development of researchers, experienced in working with institutions as they strive for research excellence, innovation and impact.