An important stage in the implementation of the HRS4R Strategy was the visit of European Commission experts on 21 November 2025.who evaluated the process of renewing the HR Excellence in Research award at Cracow University of Technology. During the meeting organized and coordinated by the PK Staff Development Office, the experts highlighted the high level of PK’s engagement, the coherence and quality of the actions presented, as well as the maturity of the procedures related to recruitment and staff development. The positive atmosphere of the visit confirmed that the chosen course of action is appropriate and brings tangible results.

A team of renowned experts consisting of:

✅ Justin Synnott (University College Dublin – UCD, Irlandia) – Lead assessor,
✅ Elena Radu Felice (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Rumunia)

conducted an in-depth analysis of how PK implements the principles of the European Charter for Researchers in the recruitment process for academic staff positions. The meeting was held with the University Authorities, Deans, the team responsible for implementing the HRS4R Strategy at PK, as well as strategic units such as the HR Centre, CeWSA, CWP, CTT, CDBN, and the Doctoral School, which are responsible for carrying out the HRS4R strategy within its four key pillars, i.e. Working conditions and work environment, Ethics and professionalism, Recruitment (OTM-R, Training and career developmentin the context of implementing the strategy and the Action Plan adopted by PK. Action Plan. Award HR Excellence in ResearchThe award, granted by the European Commission, is an important confirmation for Cracow University of Technology of the high standards in human resource management in research. It is also a strong signal to national and international partners that PK creates a friendly, transparent, and supportive environment for researchers at every stage of their careers.