WMU awarded HR Excellence in Research certificate

Wroclaw Medical University has been awarded the HR Excellence in Research certificate by the European Commission — a distinction granted to institutions that implement the principles of the European Charter for Researchers. The Charter promotes a friendly and development-oriented working environment for researchers, ensuring transparent recruitment, work–life balance, and strong support for knowledge creation, exchange, and dissemination.

“I am extremely proud that Wroclaw Medical University has obtained the HR Excellence in Research certificate,” says Prof. Piotr Ponikowski, Rector of Wroclaw Medical University. “This recognition confirms our position as one of the best universities in the country and the leading medical university in Poland. I sincerely congratulate and thank all our employees — it is thanks to their work and commitment that we have achieved this distinction.”

The HR Excellence in Research title raises the institution’s profile in the scientific community and increases competitiveness. It comes with a commitment to continuous improvement — not only in human resources management but also in scientific and teaching activities — to create a more supportive work environment and increase staff satisfaction.

“This distinction will help us attract top talents and develop their potential, improving the quality of research and strengthening our international standing,” explains Dominika Szachniewicz, Director General of Wroclaw Medical University. “For prospective academic and research staff, it is a sign that recruitment is transparent and that the University offers a friendly work atmosphere and supports the development of young scientists.”

The application process began in December 2023, with the European Commission’s positive decision issued in early July 2025. One of the first tangible steps following the award is the implementation of a new intranet platform for staff and young researchers, improving access to key documents, regulations, research support resources, and internal procedures. Work is also underway on the University’s Code of Ethics, with updates to follow.

Achieving the HR Excellence in Research certificate was a joint effort involving:

• The Implementation Team for the European Charter for Researchers, led by Dominika Szachniewicz.

• The Steering Committee, chaired by Prof. Agnieszka Hałoń, Vice-Rector for Academic Staff Development.

• The Monitoring Group, chaired by Prof. Agnieszka Matera-Witkiewicz.

“We have two years until the next evaluation by the European Commission, and I am confident that together we will fully implement the goals outlined in our HR Strategy for Researchers,” says Joanna Ciapała, project coordinator.

 More about the HR Excellence in Research certificate HERE