Fair recruitment, assessment and career development are among the key areas given particular attention during the HR Excellence in Research Award renewal process. The European Charter for Researchers provides a framework for these areas, setting out principles for how research institutions should treat researchers from their first contact with the institution throughout their professional development.
The second pillar of the Charter covers four areas that shape researchers' careers: assessment, recruitment and progression. At VSB-TUO, these areas are addressed, for example, in the Methodology for the Recruitment and Selection of New Employees, the VSB-TUO OTM-R Policy, and the Personal Development and Performance Appraisal framework.
How are these principles put into practice? Vacant positions are advertised on the university's notice board in Czech or English, while research positions are also published on the EURAXESS portal. The OTM-R principles (Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment) promote an open and transparent selection process based on candidates' professional qualifications and merits. All applicants are kept informed about the progress and outcome of the selection procedure. Job advertisements use gender-sensitive language and clearly state the requirements for applicants, the employment workload and other important information about the position and the selection process. Recruitment administration is carried out through the Recruitment of Employees application in accordance with the Rules of the Selection Procedure.
During the selection process, candidates' professional experience, creativity and diversity of experience are taken into account. Career breaks are not a reason for disadvantaging candidates, and geographical and intersectoral mobility are viewed positively. The methodology provides selection committee members with guidance on conducting interviews, including sample questions and an overview of questions that should be avoided. In addition, each interview with a shortlisted candidate is documented in a written record, helping to ensure a transparent and accountable selection process.
The onboarding process helps new employees settle into the university and follows an individual onboarding plan. This includes familiarisation with key processes and practical information that are important for successful integration into the working environment. Support for further professional development builds on this initial experience. Sharing knowledge and experience with more senior colleagues plays an important role, particularly in the development of early-career lecturers, postdoctoral researchers and young researchers.
For more information about the areas and activities covered by the second pillar, visit the Researchers' Assessment, Recruitment and Progression of Researchers – VSB-TUO website.
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