Queen Mary University of London (QML) has retained its award from the European Commission for its continued work in improving working conditions and advancing career development for research staff.
At an event at Queen Mary on Wednesday 5 March, Vitae – a charity dedicated to career learning and development – announced that QML and 10 other UK institutions have retained the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Awards at the two year stage.
This brings the total to 49 institutions who have retained the Award at the two year point.
The two year review requires institutions to highlight the key achievements and progress they have made since gaining the Award, and to outline the focus of their strategy, success measures and next steps for the following two years.
The Award demonstrates Queen Mary’s commitment to improving the quantity, quality and impact of research for the benefit of UK society and the economy.
Commenting on the Award retention, Queen Mary Researcher Development Advisor, Dr Rui Pies Martins comments: “Retaining this award demonstrates QML’s commitment to its research staff, in recognising their value, diversity and contribution to Queen Mary’s capacity to deliver of world-class research.
“By supporting our researchers and providing a system that enables them to be proactive about their own career development, we strengthen our human resources, and empower them to contribute to the global research environment.”
The UK has 89 organisations with the Award, joining 88 in the rest of Europe.
Universities and Science Minister David Willetts said: “A vibrant science and innovation sector is fundamental to the UK’s plan for long term economic growth. It is vital that we continue to support researchers to fulfil their potential.
“The HR Excellence in Research initiative helps institutions to continually review and improve career development for research staff. I’m delighted that so many UK universities have retained the award.”
For media information, contact: