Research

Planning

Introduction

Career development in research refers to the transition to a fully independent position as a researcher. Young researchers starting their careers need to think about where they want to go. Careful career planning is therefore essential in order to achieve professional goals.

Professional sections of the research career

The European Framework for Research Careers (2011) distinguishes and describes four sections or professional profiles of research careers, which are independent of any sector (universities, research institutes, companies or non-governmental organisations):

European Research Carrer Framework

 
Section Name Description
R1 Researcher in training Refers to researchers carrying out research under supervision in universities, research institutes or industry. Includes doctoral students.
R2 Recognised researcher Researchers who have already obtained a doctorate but have not yet achieved a significant level of independence, or researchers with an equivalent level of experience and competence.
R3 Independent researcher Researchers who have already achieved a certain degree of independence.
R4 Senior researcher Outstanding researchers in their field of research or knowledge. Includes directors of research groups or laboratory managers in R&D industries.