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.
The European Framework for Research Careers (2011, updated in 2023) 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):
| Section | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| R1 | First stage researcher | Researchers doing research under supervision up to the point of a PhD or equivalent level of competence and experience. |
| R2 | Recognised researcher |
Researchers with a PhD or equivalent level of competence and experience who have not yet established a significant level of independence in developing their own research, attracting funding, or leading a research group. |
| R3 | Established researcher |
Researchers with a PhD or equivalent level of competence and experience who are able to independently develop their own research, attract funding, and lead a research group. |
| R4 | Leading researcher |
Researchers with a PhD or equivalent level of competence and experience who are recognised as leading their research field by their peers. |
