A team of writers under the lead of Vered Behar from Technion - Israel Institute of Technology has today published its white paper Boost Careers of Early-Stage Researchers. It testifies that our Members are responsive to change and demonstrate leadership in advancing the careers of early-stage researchers. The issues the writers raise and the findings, recommendations and tools they present are neither conclusive nor exhaustive, but rather derive from an analysis of literature and build on the longstanding and extensive work of our Members in general, and our Task Force Human Resources in particular.
The white paper aims to inspire HR professionals at universities (of science and technology) to boost the careers of their early-stage researchers, to raise awareness amongst university leaders of the importance of this topic, and to showcase pathways towards improvement. We also aim to inform interested experts and the general public alike about the lines of thinking and best practice amongst our Members.
“Early-stage researchers need to be better supported by the academic surrounding, government and funders”, says Vered Behar (Chief HR & Chief of Operations at Technion R&D Foundation). “Considering the unique characteristics of the new generation entering academia – i.e. ´generation Z´, which looks for the opportunity to stand out and make a difference – this support will play a key part in redefining culture and human knowledge for the better.”
The white paper concludes with concrete recommendations to department heads, HR professionals, university leaders, policy-makers and funders.
“This paper may also be seen as a contribution from our association to the increasing focus on the careers of researchers in the ongoing debate on shaping the future of the European Research Area. Importantly, we need more flexible (national) labour laws for researchers allowing for several career tracks, notably enabling universities to establish tenure track positions. Moreover, funding, infrastructure and other favourable framework conditions are needed”, says David Bohmert (Secretary General).
Please find the white paper here.
For more information about this position, please contact Vered Behar and our Secretary General David Bohmert.