Major Milestone in the HRS4R Strategy at the Slovak Academy of Sciences
On March 12, 2025, the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS) moved one step closer to establishing a modern, fair, and internationally recognized recruitment system for research staff. On this date, the Presidium of SAS approved a key document of the entire HRS4R strategy: “Principles of Recruitment and Selection of Employees in Public Research Institutions of SAS”.
This document represents a cornerstone of human resources policy in the research environment and aligns with the principles of OTM-R (Open, Transparent, Merit-based Recruitment), which are part of the European Commission's Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R). As a holder of the HR Excellence in Research award, SAS is committed to respecting the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
What Do the New Principles Bring
- A unified methodology for all public research institutions of SAV
- Increased transparency and equal opportunities in recruitment
- More efficient recruitment processes and structured selection steps
- Full alignment with European standards and best practices
They are complemented by trainings and e-learning videos focused on OTM-R practices
What Comes Next?
In October 2025, SAS will prepare its self-assessment report for the renewal of the HR Excellence in Research certification, accompanied by a new Action Plan for 2026–2029. Subsequently, an External Review and Site Visit will take place, during which experts from the European Commission will assess the quality of HRS4R implementation.
With this milestone, SAS reinforces its commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and professional environment for researchers, while strengthening its standing within the European Research Area.
Prepared by Dominika Olšovská, Department of Science and Research SAS