First Stage Researcher (R1)

This profile includes individuals doing research under supervision in industry, research institutes
or universities. It includes doctoral candidates.

Researchers with this profile will:
• Carry out research under supervision
• Have the ambition to develop knowledge of research methodologies and discipline
• Have demonstrated a good understanding of a field of study
• Have demonstrated the ability to produce data under supervision
• Be capable of critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new and complex ideas
• Be able to explain the outcome of research and value thereof to research colleagues

Desirable competences
• Develops integrated language, communication and environment skills, especially in an
international context.

Recognised Researcher (R2)

This profile includes doctorate degree (PhD) holders who have not yet established a significant level of independence, and researchers with an equivalent level of experience and competence.

Necessary competences – All competences of ‘First Stage Researcher’ plus:
• Has demonstrated a systematic understanding of a field of study and mastery of
research associated with that field
• Has demonstrated the ability to conceive, design, implement and adapt a substantial
programme of research with integrity
• Has made a contribution through original research that extends the frontier of
knowledge by developing a substantial body of work, innovation or application. This
could merit national or international refereed publication or patent.
• Demonstrates critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new and complex ideas
• Can communicate with their peers - be able to explain the outcome of their research
and value thereof to the research community
• Takes ownership for and manages own career progression, sets realistic and
achievable career goals, identifies and develops ways to improve employability.
• Co-authors papers at workshop and conferences

Desirable competences
• Understands the agenda of industry and other related employment sectors
• Understands the value of their research work in the context of products and services from
industry and other related employment sectors
• Can communicate with the wider community, and with society generally, about their
areas of expertise
• Can be expected to promote, within professional contexts, technological, social or
cultural advancement in a knowledge based society
• Can mentor First Stage Researchers, helping them to be more effective and successful in
their R&D trajectory.

Established Researcher (R3)

This profile includes researchers who have developed a level of independence.

Necessary competences – All necessary and most desirable competences of ‘Recognised Researcher’ plus:
• Has an established reputation based on research excellence in their field
• Makes a positive contribution to the development of knowledge, research and
development through co-operations and collaborations
• Identifies research problems and opportunities within their area of expertise
• Identifies appropriate research methodologies and approaches
• Conducts research independently which advances a research agenda
• Can take the lead in executing collaborative research projects in cooperation with
colleagues and project partners
• Publishes papers as lead author, organises workshop or conference sessions

Desirable competences
• Establishes collaborative relationships with relevant industry research or development
groups
• Communicates their research effectively to the research community and wider society
• Is innovative in their approach to research
• Can form research consortia and secure research funding / budgets / resources from
research councils or industry
• Is committed to professional development of their own career and acts as mentor for
others.

Leading Researcher (R4)

This profile includes researchers leading their research area or field. It would include the team leader of a
research group or head of an industry R&D laboratory. In particular disciplines as an exception,
leading researchers may include individuals who operate as lone researchers.

Necessary competences – All necessary and most desirable competences of ‘Established Researcher’ plus:
• Has an international reputation based on research excellence in their field
• Demonstrates critical judgment in the identification and execution of research
activities
• Makes a substantial contribution (breakthroughs) to their research field or spanning
multiple areas
• Develops a strategic vision on the future of the research field
• Recognises the broader implications and applications of their research
• Publishes and presents influential papers and books, serves on workshop and
conference organising committees and delivers invited talks

Desirable competences
• Is an expert at managing and leading research projects
• Is skilled at managing and developing others
• Has a proven record in securing significant research funding / budgets / resources
• Beyond team building and collaboration, focusing on long-term team planning (e.g.
career paths for the researchers and securing funding for the team positions)
• Is an excellent communicator and networker within and outside the research community
[creating networks]
• Is able to create an innovative and creative environment for research
• Acts as a professional development role model for others

Die Beschreibung der Karrierephasen basiert auf einer Erklärung der Europäischen Kommission Towards a European Framework for Research Careers von 2011.
https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/europe/career-development/training-researchers/research-profiles-descriptors