The University of Montpellier has had its European “HR Excellence in Research” designation renewed through 2027
As the first French university to receive the “HR Excellence in Research” label from the European Commission in March 2015, the University of Montpellier (UM) reaffirms its commitment to an ambitious and responsible human resources policy for research. Renewed through July 2027, this designation recognizes ten years of ongoing efforts carried out as part of the HRS4R (Human Resources Strategy for Researchers) initiative.
A long-term commitment: a guarantee of quality and appeal
Since 2015, the University of Montpellier has been implementing the HRS4R strategy, a quality initiative based on the principle of continuous improvement, in line with the recommendations of the European Charter for Researchers. This European framework aims to promote research careers, ensure fair and transparent practices, and enhance the attractiveness of institutions.
UM fullyUM to this effort by working to:
- support the careers of researchers,
- ensure open, transparent, and merit-based hiring (OTM-R),
- encourage mobility and integration within teams,
- improve working conditions and well-being within the scientific community.
The “HR Excellence in Research” designation is a strategic asset for the University of Montpellier, as it enhances its national and international visibility, secures access to European funding (particularly under the Horizon Europe program), and demonstrates its commitment to responsible and inclusive research.
“I am delighted that we have retained the HR Excellence in Research label through 2027—a European recognition that honors more than a decade of collective commitment to responsible and inclusive research. This label attests to the quality of the work carried out by our community and to our commitment to providing researchers with an exemplary professional environment. It enhances the University of Montpellier’s international appeal and supports our ambition to remain a major player in European research—one that is open, demanding, and forward-looking,” said Philippe Augé, President of the University of Montpellier.
A New Action Plan for 2024–2027
The self-assessment conducted in 2023–2024, based on extensive consultation with the research community and cross-functional collaboration among departments, led to the development of a new action plan for the period 2024–2027. This plan, approved by the Board of Directors on November 18, 2024, was validated by the European Commission following a thorough evaluation.
The full HRS4R 2024 report: here
The European experts’ approval of this application confirms the quality of the program implemented and the renewal of the designation through July 2027. This plan, built on the values of transparency, inclusivity, and excellence, guides the continuation of the initiatives undertaken since 2015 to make the University of Montpellier an exemplary, attractive, and sustainable research environment.