Press release -
Award recognises excellence in research
Northumbria University has received a major European award recognising its support for the career development of research staff.
To gain the European Commission HR Excellence in Research Award employers of researchers must demonstrate plans to improve how they attract, manage and develop research staff.
Northumbria University has developed a plan to implement the Concordat agreement between Universities UK and Research Councils UK which is designed to support the career development of researchers. This sets out the responsibilities and expectations of researchers, managers, employers and funders. It aims to increase the attractiveness and sustainability of research careers, leading to improvements in the quantity, quality and impact of research.
Professor Peter Golding, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) said: “We have been working significantly to improve our research profile and capacity over the last five years.
“We are therefore delighted to receive this international recognition for our efforts to provide our high-quality research-active staff with outstanding opportunities to develop their careers with us.
“This award also recognises our commitment to invest in the recruitment, retention and talent development of high-performing staff to ensure we have the right skills for the future.
“As we approach the final stages of our preparation for REF2014, this award will help to strengthen our submission, sending a clear signal of the quality of the support and development opportunities we provide to our researchers.”
David Willetts MP, Minister for Universities and Science said: "It is vital that the working conditions of researchers continue to improve because world-class science and research are the key to future economic growth.
“The total number of UK institutions with this award is higher than in the whole of the rest of Europe put together, which is a great testament to the strength of our research base.”
For more information on the careers support available to researchers, click here.
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Northumbria is a research-rich, business-focussed, professional university with a global reputation for academic excellence. To find out more about our courses go towww.northumbria.ac.uk
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