A new white paper, The European Charter for Researchers in Modern Talent Ecosystems: Structural Gaps and Policy Pathways across the ERA, examines how the European Charter for Researchers is being implemented across diverse talent and innovation ecosystems within the European Research Area (ERA).
Drawing on evidence from 10 collaborative ERA projects, the paper brings together findings from surveys, interviews, focus groups, institutional diagnostics and policy mapping exercises. It distinguishes between findings supported by completed research and evidence from ongoing pilot activities and planned targets.
The analysis identifies five interconnected structural challenges affecting research careers across Europe:
- Career instability linked to funding: Dependence on project-based funding contributes to uncertainty and limits long-term career prospects.
- Gaps in institutional career support: Institutions face challenges in providing effective career guidance and recognising researchers’ competencies.
- Limited mobility between sectors: Opportunities for movement between academia and other employment sectors remain constrained, while links with employers need strengthening.
- Insufficient recognition of diverse research contributions: Applied and entrepreneurial outputs are often under-recognised, alongside limited awareness of intellectual property rights and related processes.
- Unequal regional opportunities and inclusion: Conditions for pursuing a research career vary across regions, affecting access to opportunities and support.
The paper suggests that these challenges stem primarily from established structures within research systems and differences in institutional capacity to implement reforms, rather than from a lack of support for the principles of the European Charter for Researchers.
Building on evidence presented during Session 2 of the ERA clustering event, the paper also outlines policy implications and priorities for further testing. Its findings provide a basis for continued discussion on how research organisations and policymakers can strengthen career support, improve working conditions and create more sustainable and inclusive research environments across Europe.
Read the full white paper: The European Charter for Researchers in Modern Talent Ecosystems: Structural Gaps and Policy Pathways across the ERA
Photo: UNSPLASH/Austin
