Recommendations on Minimum Standards for Research Careers

These recommendations represent a significant step forward in the shared effort to develop a research ecosystem that is attractive and responsive to the needs of the talent it seeks to create, attract, and retain. Structured around three interconnected domains (Working Conditions and Employment, Research Environment, and Professional Development, Well-being, and Supporting Infrastructure), they reflect a common understanding among Science Europe Member Organisations that a common approach to minimum standards is essential for continued action and advocacy. When research professionals benefit from fair salaries, strong social security, transparent career pathways, and conditions that support work–life balance, they are better equipped to generate excellent and impactful research.

The good practice examples show that progress is already underway across the European Research Area. However, we must move from individual practices to systemic change in key areas through structured co-ordination, collaboration, and sustained advocacy towards national governments and European institutions. Science Europe will actively support these efforts to ensure meaningful improvements in research professional’s daily working lives, across Europe and beyond.