ICIQ has successfully renewed the HR Excellence in Research award granted by the European Commission. This distinction highlights ICIQ’s firm commitment to continuously improving recruitment practices, working conditions, training, and professional development for its research staff—aligned with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
This recognition falls within the framework of the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R), a European initiative aimed at fostering scientific excellence, researcher well-being, and inclusive, transparent, and equal-opportunity work environments.
By renewing this award, ICIQ reaffirms its dedication to quality, responsibility, and ongoing improvement in managing its research talent. “Revalidating this award guarantees the quality of our human resources management and underscores our continued efforts to offer a competitive, ethical working environment aligned with European standards. It also reflects the collective work of our entire team in attracting and retaining top-tier research talent,” says Imma Escofet, Managing Director and Administrative Head of ICIQ.
Francesc Masot, Head of Human Resources, adds: “This renewal is the result of the work carried out through the 2023–2026 Action Plan, which includes concrete measures to advance the professionalization of research careers, gender equality, continuous training, and transparency in recruitment processes.”

ICIQ first obtained the HR Excellence in Research award in August 2017. Since then, a dedicated working group—established in 2019—has played a key role in driving the strategy, monitoring internal assessments, and implementing action plans. Their dedication has been instrumental in achieving this new milestone and in shaping the 2023–2026 Action Plan, which continues to guide ICIQ’s commitment to a high-quality, competitive, and internationally aligned research environment.
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