- Vitae, a global authority on the professional development of researchers, bestows this award
- It highlights Aston University's dedication to aligning its processes and practices
- Key achievements include career development opportunities, a high-quality training program and the positive role of early career researchers in planning and implementing the Award.
Aston University has successfully retained the HR Excellence in Research Award for a 12th year.
The award highlights Aston University's dedication to aligning its processes and practices with the UK Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, thereby enhancing the working conditions and career progression for research staff.
Vitae, a global authority on the professional development of researchers, bestows this award, which Aston University retained after an external review.
During the review, institutions must show they have conducted a thorough gap analysis of their current policies and practices in relation to the Concordat, created a comprehensive action plan for implementation and considered the perspectives of researchers.
Aston University was commended for its ‘excellent’ submission. Key actions highlighted include the breadth of career development opportunities, high quality training programme, and the positive role played by early career researchers in the planning and delivery of the Award.
Aston University is one of four institutions to retain the award after their 12-year review and one of 87 Vitae UK member institutions with the award.
Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said:
“I am extremely pleased that Aston University has retained the HR Excellence in Research Award following our 12-year review.
“This award highlights our commitment to fostering the career development of our early research staff, implementing strategic policies and providing an empowering environment for impactful research.
“Our early career research staff are crucial to the University's success and this award recognises our achievements and propels us forward in advancing a dynamic research environment, ensuring excellent employment conditions and promoting professional development.
“Our action plan aligns with the Aston 2030 Strategy, prioritising world-leading research and societal impact.”
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
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