Supporting young researchers careers in European Universities

Building a sustainable and supportive research culture is vital for young researchers in European University alliances. Young researchers are at the forefront of innovation, yet they may face challenges that can hinder their potential. Fixed-term contracts, lack of training, international networking opportunities as well as diversity and inclusivity are some of the major constraints for early careers researchers.

In this article, we look into young researchers’ challenges and how we have tackled them within the Ulysseus European University.

Challenges facing the next generation of researchers

Young researchers often start their careers under precarious conditions. Fixed-term contracts and reliance on short-term funding create uncertainty, making it difficult to plan the future. This insecurity is further compounded by a competitive academic job market, where metrics like publication counts and citation indices dominate evaluations. Such an approach can lead to narrow focus, prioritizing quantity over quality and stifling creativity.

These pressures are aggravated by the lack of adequate training in transferable skills, which are essential for careers both within and beyond academia (OECD 2012). In the Ulysseus European University a special attention has been given to the development of researchers’ transferable skills (more on this in our earlier article Best practices in organizing a conference to impact researcher competences and careers).

Moreover, young researchers lack opportunities to network and build up their research networks. These challenges have been in focus at Ulysseus European University by providing various international networking opportunities for young researchers of each partner universities. For instance, when forming research groups and when promoting Ulysseus research conferences, a special focus has been put to give opportunities for early career researchers as well.

Inclusivity and diversity remain critical challenges in higher education institutions across Europe. Women, researchers from underrepresented groups, and individuals with disabilities often encounter systemic barriers that limit their opportunities. These issues highlight the need for a holistic framework that addresses not only the professional but also the personal dimensions of researchers’ lives. Family-friendly policies and a supportive institutional culture are indispensable for ensuring well-being and productivity among young researchers (Tieteentekijät 2023). Therefore, in Ulysseus we ensure that all activities dedicated to promoting research are conducted in a manner that considers inclusivity and diversity as a priority.

The role of institutional frameworks

Institutional policies aligned with the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers offer a pathway to addressing these challenges. These frameworks advocate merit-based evaluations and transparent recruitment practices, reducing biases and ensuring fair opportunities for young talent. (European Commission 2023.)

Such policies also emphasise the importance of career development programs, which equip researchers with skills in leadership, project management, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These competencies are invaluable for succeeding in a researcher’s career development.

Collaboration across institutions also plays a significant role. Initiatives like the European Universities Alliances provide young researchers access to transnational networks, shared resources, and joint training programs. These opportunities enhance academic and professional development and foster a sense of belonging within a diverse and dynamic research community (European Universities Initiative 2023). Ulysseus European University encourages young researchers to take part in various competence development courses as well as in research conferences, where they can easily enter international research communities.

The role of the HRS4R-certificate in supporting young researchers

In summer 2025, as the first Finnish university of applied sciences, Haaga-Helia was awarded the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) certificate by the European Commission. This recognition ensures that Haaga-Helia invests in the career development of researchers and acknowledges as well as promotes the well-being and rights of researchers. Moreover, the award demonstrates fostering the transparency of the recruiting process of researchers and respecting their work-life balance (see an earlier article Boosting researchers’ careers to capture the best talents). The award was the result of a long process conducted by the COMPASS project as part of Ulysseus activities promoting research within the alliance.

HRS4R provides a framework for addressing the challenges faced by young researchers. By promoting fair recruitment processes, transparent evaluations, and structured career support, HRS4R creates an environment where young researchers can thrive. Institutions implementing HRS4R are encouraged to adopt policies that offer stable employment opportunities and sustainable funding mechanisms, reducing the precarious nature of academic careers (European Commission 2023). Therefore, having HRS4R award supports Haaga-Helia in recruiting high-class research staff.

HRS4R also supports the development of transferable skills through targeted training programs, ensuring that young researchers are equipped to succeed in both academic and non-academic roles. The strategy’s emphasis on inclusivity and diversity fosters a research culture that values contributions from individuals of all backgrounds. This inclusivity not only benefits researchers but also enhances the quality and impact of the research produced.

Fostering innovation through inclusive practices

A research culture that values inclusivity and diversity is essential for driving innovation. Institutions must actively work to remove barriers that limit participation from underrepresented groups. Policies promoting gender equality, support for researchers with disabilities, and mentoring programs for individuals from diverse backgrounds are critical in creating an equitable environment. These measures ensure that a broader range of perspectives contributes to research, leading to outcomes that are both innovative and socially relevant (Tieteentekijät 2023).

The integration of well-being initiatives into institutional frameworks is equally important. Addressing the emotional and psychological pressures faced by young researchers can significantly enhance their productivity and creativity. Institutions that prioritise work-life balance and offer access to counseling services create environments where researchers can thrive both professionally and personally.

Benefits of HRS4R for European University alliances

The implementation of the HRS4R- certificate offers numerous advantages for European Universities. By aligning with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers, institutions enhance their reputations as supportive and inclusive environments for research. This recognition attracts top talent, strengthens international collaboration, and boosts institutional competitiveness on a global scale (European Commission 2023). In Ulysseus, two higher education institutions (Haaga-Helia and University of Côte d´Azur) have already received the award. Other partners are in the process of evaluating the benefits.

HRS4R also fosters a culture of continuous improvement within the alliance. Through regular self-assessments and external reviews, institutions can identify areas for growth and implement targeted strategies to address challenges. This process benefits researchers and contributes to the overall excellence and sustainability of the European University alliances.

At Ulysseus, the specific added value of Haaga-Helia having the certificate is the promotion of young researchers’ careers in applied sciences, and applied research offering added value to multinational research groups. Partnerships between universities and industry also facilitate applied research projects that address real-world challenges. At universities of applied sciences, such collaborations demonstrate the relevance of applied research in solving societal issues and underscore the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. For young researchers, these opportunities provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, reinforcing the value of their contributions.

Toward a sustainable future for research careers

HRS4R is not just a label. It requires a concrete action plan that enhances the ability of Haaga-Helia to foster talent, offer good working conditions, and provide multitudinous career development opportunities for young researchers.

A new research culture at Haaga-Helia, as part of Ulysseus alliance, will encompass the behavior and values of a new international research community. In the near future, it will influence young researchers’ career paths and determine the way applied research is conducted and communicated in Europe.

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