Key elements of the new procedure

1. Introduction of a timeline/timeframe with fixed periods: 12 months maximum between notification of endorsement of the Charter & Code and submission of the Gap Analysis and Action Plan (24 and 36 months for the other phases).
2. Incorporation of the OTM-R system: criteria for implementing OTM-R are included in the Gap Analysis and Action Plan.
3. Earlier internationalisation: from the point of view that external assessors from other countries will assess the Action Plan and the Gap Analysis.
4. Withdrawal of the HRS4R award based on clear criteria.
5. Enhancement of quality, not only on progress: every three years an internal review and external assessment are performed.
6. Introduction of “quality” elements: from the beginning, the progress and quality of actions included in the Strategy are analysed.
7. Strengthened assessment throughout the different phases: a series of templates is provided for the different phases of the process. The OTM-R policies are included in the Gap Analysis, and the 40 principles of the Charter and Code reflected on. The Gap Analysis and Action Plan should be consistent with each other.
8. Implementing indicators and targets for success: organisations must provide indicators to observe to what extent the new actions taken to comply with the Charter and Code are being met.
9. Consulting key actors in the process: creating work groups, committees in which all key actors are involved (researchers of different levels, different departments, etc.).

You can download the templates from here.

• If you are a Spanish institution that employs researchers and you wish to obtain this logo, do not hesitate to get in touch with us and we will explain the process to you. Contact us!
• If you want to learn which Spanish institutions have already been granted with the recognition of the HRS4R, you can check directly in the EURAXESS European website