Recognising contributions and supporting career development. The institutional focus on ways of working makes it essential that the University acknowledges the broadest range of contributions, supporting people to advance their careers and practice inclusive leadership at all stages, through professional development, reward, and recognition.
- Current activities and initiatives
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Review of Academic Promotions: A new framework for academic promotion which sets out criteria related to different academic activity. The new framework also included a change of title for Grade 7 research staff, from ‘Research Fellow’ to ‘Advanced Research Fellow’, acknowledging the accumulation of experience relative to Grade 6 researchers and facilitating clarity on the requirements for progression from Grade 6 to 7. This forms part of a Research career track with the potential to reach Grade 9, in line with Teaching and Research, and Teaching and Scholarship.
Annual Review Project: will undertake a fundamental review of the annual review processes for all grades and categories of staff within the University, with the key aim of launching a new policy and supporting guidance materials and systems aligned with sector good practice, embodying the commitments of Aberdeen 2040.
Institutional Research Leave Scheme: For AY 2025/26 the insitutional research leave scheme will focus on research cultue and supporting individuals to enhance understanding and practice. Applications will open in early 2025.
PORTAL: is a hub for resources and information related to research training and career development. Designed to empower researchers at every stage of their journey, PORTAL provides essential tools, resources and guidance. PORTAL offers a structured and dynamic approach to support personal and professional growth. With tailored development pathways, you can navigate specific needs, explore opportunities aligned with your role or career stage, and gain confidence in your future career direction. PORTAL will launch late 2024.
- Sector standards
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The Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers: supports researchers' career development and the environment in which they conduct their research. It sets out three clear principles: Environment and Culture, Employment, and Professional and Career Development and outlines the obligations of key stakeholders: Funders, Institutions, Researchers and Managers of Researchers. Read more about the Concordat and explore what the University is doing here.
HR Excellence in Research Award: allows UK HEIs to demonstrate their alignment with the principles of the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers and the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. The University has retained the award since it was first awarded in 2010.
The Technicians Commitment: is a university and research institution initiative, led by a steering board of sector bodies, hosted by the UK Institute for Technical Skills & Strategy. It aims to ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines. The University has been a signatory since 2019.
Athena Swan Charter: aims to support greater inclusivity for people in all roles, of all gender identities, and those facing intersectional inequalities across the higher education sector. It empowers us as a University to make active commitments in line with gender equality goals, as well as recognise and reward gender equality work. The University has been a member of the Charter since 2011 and was re-awarded Bronze in 2021. Explore more about our work on Gender Equality.
Race Equality Charter: aims to improve the representation, experience, progression and success of racially minoritised staff and students within higher education.It provides a framework through which institutions work to reflect and act on institutional and cultural barriers standing in the way of the progression and success of racially minoritised staff and students. The University was awarded a Bronze Award in 2024.
- External links and resources
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Vitae is a UK-based organisation dedicated to supporting the professional development of researchers worldwide. Vitae focuses on helping researchers develop skills essential for career advancement both within and outside of academia, providing resources and tools designed to enhance researcher skills, manage career development, and help them to navigate the challenges of research careers.
Prosper is an initiative led by the University of Liverpool, designed to enhance the career development of postdoctoral researchers. It offers a comprehensive suite of resources and tools aimed at unlocking postdocs' potential across various career pathways, both within and beyond academia