The Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN) has successfully implemented 14 key actions from the SECURE Project’s Research Careers Framework over the past six months. These efforts, spanning across eight pillars, aim to enhance research career development, improve working conditions, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.
Key Actions and Results
Defining Research Roles: PLOCAN conducted a comprehensive job analysis to define clear profiles for research managers and technicians, aligning them with the European Skills, Competences, Qualifications, and Occupations (ESCO) classification.
Recognition of Alternative Career Paths: A dedicated workshop was organized to raise awareness about non-linear and hybrid research career opportunities, featuring insights from industry experts.
Enhanced Working Conditions: PLOCAN reviewed and improved policies for inclusivity, gender equality, and equal opportunities by integrating best practices and compliance with EU regulations.
Entrepreneurial Support: An internal workshop on intellectual property was held to encourage researchers to explore start-ups and spin-offs, reinforcing innovation in marine sciences.
Open Science and Research Assessment: Research assessment procedures were updated to recognize Open Science practices and societal impact, including a proposal to join the Barcelona Declaration.
Talent Attraction and Retention: PLOCAN organized discussions with senior management on strategies to support returning researchers and collected best practices from other organizations.
International Collaboration: Engagement with the OECD and key stakeholders was initiated to contribute to the development of the Research and Innovation Careers Observatory (ReICO), supporting long-term career monitoring and development.
Lessons Learned and Challenges
PLOCAN’s experience in implementing these actions highlighted the importance of aligning research roles with European frameworks to ensure clarity and consistency. Additionally, the integration of Open Science practices into research assessment and the promotion of interdisciplinary career development have proven essential for fostering innovation. However, resource constraints and the complexity of institutional changes remain challenges that require strategic planning and sustained efforts.
Through these initiatives, PLOCAN continues to strengthen research career pathways, contributing to the advancement of marine science and technology while promoting sustainable ocean resource management.
This is one of six SECURE trials – programs being implemented by institutions as part of the project. We will introduce each of them to showcase how different organizations are working to improve research career pathways across Europe.
These trials will be presented at the final SECURE summit in Brussels in March 2025.
Photo: Plataforma Oceánica de Canarias/Facebook