The European Charter for Researchers describes the rights and responsibilities of researchers and institutions that employ them, as well as research funding organisations (grant funders).

• It is addressed to all researchers in the European Union at all stages of their career and covers all fields of research in the public and private sectors, irrespective of the nature of the position and employment, the legal status of the employer, or the type of organisation or institution where the research is conducted.
• The document highlights the need to create good and stable working conditions for researchers at every stage of their career path. Also, it encourages professional relationships between researchers and employers or funders that foster positive outcomes in the creation, transfer, exchange and dissemination of knowledge and technological development.
• It regulates issues including the rules for good practice in scientific research, intellectual property rights, dissemination of research results, funding and remuneration, gender balance, or the non-discrimination principle.
• The Charter recognises the value of all forms of mobility as a means to further the professional development of researchers.
• It provides a framework for researchers, employers, and funders to act responsibly and professionally in the work environment and to see each other as professionals.
• It takes into account the multiple roles of researchers, appointed not only to conduct research and/or to perform development-related activities, but also to carry out scientific supervision, as well as advisory, managerial, or administrative tasks.
• The Charter is based on the premise that the primary obligation of researchers, their employers, and/or research funders is to comply with relevant national or regional regulations.
• A university that adheres to the principles laid out in the European Charter for Researchers can use this prestigious distinction and the "HR Excellence in Research” logo.

European Charter for Researchers 2005

European Charter for Researchers 2024

From January 2024, the Charter and Code are replaced by an updated document entitled: "European Charter for Scientists", the content of which has been adapted to the provisions of current challenges, the changing scientific environment and scientific careers. The new Researcher Charter is an annex to the EU Council recommendations of 18 December 2023 on a European framework for attracting and retaining research, innovation, and entrepreneurship talent in Europe - Annex II, from page 18.

• Council reaches political agreement on how to keep, attract and retain research, innovation and entrepreneurial talents in Europe - Consilium (europa.eu),
  
• European Charter for Researchers | EURAXESS (europa.eu)