HRS4R : CY Cergy Paris University receives EU Award

Almost three years ago CY Cergy Paris University started the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) process to apply for the HR Excellence in Research award from the European Commission. The verdict was announced in October 2021: CY Cergy Paris University won the award. The HRS4R label attests the commitment of CY Cergy Paris University to improve the recruitment and the working conditions of its researchers. 

According to François Germinet, President of CY Cergy Paris University :
The implementation of the HRS4R process fits into the institution’s strategy to increase our visibility and to become more attractive internationally. This award is proof that CY Cergy Paris University is resolutely committed to the European research world and enables our researchers to lead a rich professional experience within our institution.

A strategy that makes researchers central to the process

After instituting a specific governing structure, the institution began a vast consultation via a questionnaire to its community of researchers. The objective was to place the quality of our practices in the context of the objectives set by the European Commission. At the same time, the related administrative services began an analysis of their practices. The thematic consultation groups, made up of researchers, worked to determine the actions needed to improve recruitment and welcome procedures for researchers in our institution. Their work was based on the results of the questionnaire, on the observation of administrative practices and on their own experiences within CY Cergy Paris University.

An ambitious and committed action plan

Representing all disciplines, all categories of researchers, and with as many women as men in the working groups, 11 objectives were designated, divided into 69 actions to be put in place in the coming years.
The 11 objectives of the action plan are to:

• Develop expertise and improve communication in ethics, scientific integrity, and professional conduct;
• Ensure better information about security for researchers at CY Cergy Paris University;
• Develop and structure the dissemination of scientific culture in the institution’s laboratories;
• Facilitate the integration of researchers as soon as they arrive at CY Cergy Paris University and improve their access to information; 
• Improve the welcome and framework for all doctoral students, taking into account QVT (Quality of Lifeat Work);
• Make information available to non-French speakers;
• Develop Open, Transparent and Merit-Based (OTM-R) recruitment practices through training and adapted processes;
• Move from non-discrimination to inclusion;
• Adapt training opportunities to the real needs of researchers;
• Simplify administrative paperwork for incoming visiting researchers;
• Improve access to and preservation of research data.

The action plan proposed here is the result of close consultation between the researchers and the involvement of the administrative services, which is essential for the implementation of the actions. This collaboration, which continues in the implementation phase of the action plan, is an important foundation for the success of the approach. It contributes to the convergence of human resources policies and is part of the institution's overall strategy, particularly in terms of social and environmental responsibility.