BFU is in the evaluation stage for the "HR Excellence in Research" award

Burgas Free University successfully continues its participation in the procedure for awarding the "HR Excellence in Research" distinction within the framework of the European Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R).

The process began with BFU's official endorsement of the principles of the European Charter for Researchers (2023). Following the acceptance of this institutional commitment, the University conducted a comprehensive analysis of its policies and practices against the 20 principles of the Charter and developed the core documents for the initial phase of HRS4R: the Gap Analysis, the Action Plan 2025–2027, and the OTM-R Policy.

As part of the preparation, the institutional environment supporting the development of researchers at BFU was also systematized – covering fields such as research ethics and integrity, Open Science, transparent recruitment and career progression, working conditions, professional development, mobility, gender equality, and inclusion. This approach integrates HRS4R into the University's existing management and quality assurance mechanisms (INTEGRATED INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK).

The documents submitted by BFU successfully passed the administrative eligibility check. The University has received official notification that its application for the HR Excellence in Research Award has been submitted for evaluation.

Currently, the procedure is at the Initial Assessment & Granting stage. BFU is awaiting the evaluation results and continues to implement the planned activities to develop a sustainable, transparent, and supportive research environment in line with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers.