We are pleased to announce that the following UK institution has retained the HR Excellence in Research Award after their 13-year review.
Royal Veterinary College
The HR Excellence in Research Award is an important mechanism for implementing the principles of the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers and in retaining their Awards these UK institutions have demonstrated their long-term commitment to the career development of researchers. There are currently 82 Vitae UK member institutions with the Award.
If your institution would be interested in applying for the HR Excellence in Research Award please contact concordat@vitae.ac.uk to find out about 2026 submission deadlines.
Notes to editors
- A UK-wide process enables UK higher education institutions to gain the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award, which acknowledges their alignment with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for their Recruitment. The UK process incorporates both the ‘QAA Quality Code for Higher Education – Chapter B11: Research Degrees’ and the ‘Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers’ to enable institutions that have published Concordat implementation plans to gain the HR Excellence in Research Award. The UK approach includes ongoing national evaluation and benchmarking.
- Vitae and its membership programme are managed by The Careers Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC) Limited, an independent registered charity
- There are 728 institutions in total with the Award (74 Vitae member UK institutions and 646 other institutions) who have gained the recognition are listed on the EURAXESS website.
About CRAC
The Careers, Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC) is a charity which provides research, intelligence and innovation services to those who support career development.
We work in partnership with government agencies, education organisations, providers, employers, and professional bodies. CRAC is a registered charity No 313164 established in 1964.
For more information, visit crac.org.uk
About Vitae
Vitae is the UK’s leading organisation dedicated to supporting the professional development of researchers. Working in partnership with institutions, funders, and policy makers, Vitae provides evidence-based resources, training, and consultancy to enhance researcher development and build research capacity. With a global reputation for excellence, Vitae champions the advancement of research careers and promotes a healthy, inclusive research culture across disciplines and sectors.
For more information, visit www.vitae.ac.uk