ERA-CAREERS · ERA-CAREERS: From Charter to Practice – Strengthening Research Careers Through Capacity Building and Communities of Practice

ERA-CAREERS supports the systemic uptake of the European Charter for Researchers by creating a durable and scalable architecture that bridges diagnostics, learning, peer ecosystems, and policy. The project adopts a multi-level theory of change, beginning with participatory, narrative-based mapping of systemic challenges and enablers across national and thematic clusters (SO1). Insights are translated into a modular Learning and Certification Hub, offering ≥20 micro-learning units and stackable certification pathways tailored to researchers, careeERA-CAREERS supports the systemic uptake of the European Charter for Researchers by building a durable and scalable architecture that connects diagnostics, learning, peer ecosystems, and policy. The project adopts a multi-level theory of change, moving from participatory mapping of systemic challenges (SO1) to the creation of a modular Learning and Certification Hub (SO2), the establishment of a Pan-European Community of Practice platform with four Thematic CoPs (SO3), and structured policy uptake through Policy Briefs and a high-level Summit (SO4). By combining narrative-based diagnostics, digitally enabled micro-learning, peer-driven institutional tools, and validated policy guidance, ERA-CAREERS ensures that Charter principles are embedded into HR systems, governance structures, and national strategies. Over three years, the project will engage ≥600 learners, ≥40 institutions (≥50% external), and at least 50 policymakers and funders, producing an integrated repository of good practices, validated institutional tools, and stakeholder-endorsed policy recommendations. This approach directly delivers on the expected outcomes of the Work Programme: (1) consolidated inventory of good practices and lessons learnt, (2) broader institutional adoption of the research career framework across academic and non-academic actors, and (3) improved working conditions and employability for researchers, particularly early-career researchers.