The aim of the European Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is the continuous improvement of employment and recruitment conditions for researchers in European institutions. The strategy is guided by the key documents: the European Charter for Researchers and, until the end of 2023, also the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. These documents outline fundamental principles that should be followed by research-performing and research-funding institutions, both public and private.

Institutions that effectively implement the principles of the Charter and Code are awarded the "HR Excellence in Research" distinction by the European Commission.

It contains 20 key principles, structured under 4 pillars:

1. Ethics, Integrity, Gender and Open Science
   • Ethics and research integrity
   • Freedom of scientific research
   • Open science
   • Gender equality
   • Embracing diversity
   • The researcher
   • Free circulation of researchers
   • Sustainability of research
2. Researchers Assessment, Recruitment And Progression 
   • Researchers’ assessment 
   • Recruitment
   • Selection 
   • Career progression
3. Working Conditions and Practices
   • Working conditions, funding, and salaries
   • Stability of employment 
   • Contractual and legal obligations 
   • Dissemination and exploitation of results
4. Research Careers and Talent Development
   • Valuing diverse research careers 
   • Career development and advice
   • Continuous professional development
   • Supervision and mentoring