CY Cergy Paris Université has had its HRS4R accreditation renewed

Established by the European Commission in 2005, the HRS4R (Human Resources Strategy for Researchers) label aims to support research and higher education institutions in improving their human resources management practices, with a focus on researchers’ well-being and the creation of an environment conducive to high-quality research. This distinction recognises institutions, such as CY Cergy Paris University, which have implemented effective strategies to attract and retain talented researchers, and are committed to upholding the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.

“CY Cergy Paris University obtained certification in October 2021,” recalls Sonia Tlemçani, HRS4R project manager in the Directorate of Steering, Legal Affairs and Continuous Improvement. “Since the end of last February, following an assessment of our internal report, the European Commission has confirmed the extension of the HRS4R label, affirming our commitment to the initiative. We are currently implementing the action plan, and our next challenge will be the external evaluation by the European Commission. This evaluation, scheduled for 27 February 2027, will involve having our institution assessed by external peers to verify its compliance with the HRS4R principles.”

Boosting innovation and productivity

The success and implementation of the action plan to improve working conditions at CY Cergy Paris University require the involvement of several departments. These include the Human Resources Department for recruitment and career development policies, the Research Department in direct liaison with the relevant community, as well as the Steering Department, the Internationalisation Department, the scientific integrity and gender equality officers, the university library, the Health, Safety and Environment Department, and the Digital Department. “Rethinking the recruitment and working conditions for researchers at CY Cergy Paris University is essential to ensuring our long-term success. As a higher education and research institution, attractive working conditions are crucial for attracting and retaining the most promising talent.”

"By improving work-life balance, providing adequate support and fostering an inclusive environment, we can stimulate innovation and productivity whilst ensuring the well-being of our research community. In practical terms, we have established forums for dialogue between researchers and administrative management, such as HR drop-in sessions and PhD student drop-in sessions. Furthermore, we have improved the welcome booklet by including information on laboratories (contact persons, site locations) and drafted the OTMR (Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment) charter, which sets out ethical recommendations for recruitment. We have also strengthened training and awareness-raising initiatives on ethics."

Making an international impact

At the same time, CY Cergy Paris University provides individual career development support for PhD students. The university has put in place a structured process enabling each PhD student to define their short- and long-term career goals, in consultation with the career services and business relations officer, as well as the steps required to achieve them. This plan may include specific training courses, networking opportunities, collaborative research projects, or opportunities for international mobility. “The aim is to encourage the continuous development of researchers’ skills and careers, whilst meeting the specific needs of each individual,” summarises Sonia Tlemçani.

Awarding the label enhances the university’s visibility and its international standing. This initiative demonstrates the university’s commitment to the well-being of its staff and confirms its determination to maintain high standards in human resources management and research. The HRS4R label offers CY Cergy Paris University the opportunity to access additional funding, as it is a requirement for specific applications such as the Chair in Humanities and Social Sciences for the Île-de-France region.