This factsheet presents new European standards and tools designed to make research careers more attractive and sustainable. Improving working conditions for Europe’s two million researchers is a key ERA priority, helping to address societal challenges in health, defence, digital, and green technologies.
At the centre is the proposed European Framework for Research Careers, including a new Charter for Researchers with 20 updated principles covering fair career progression, balanced mobility, improved recruitment, and stronger support for working conditions. The Charter is addressed to researchers, employers, funders, and policymakers alike, making it easier to implement through the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R).
Complementing this, the new ResearchComp website introduces the first EU Competence Framework for Researchers. It allows researchers to self-assess and develop transversal skills for inter-sectoral and interdisciplinary careers, while also helping employers and training providers better understand and support research talent.
Together, these initiatives aim to retain European talent, attract international researchers, and ensure that research careers are both competitive and resilient in the global landscape. The factsheet outlines the main features of the new Charter and ResearchComp, as well as their role in strengthening research careers across Europe.
