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A new agreement setting out clear expectations for researchers, research managers, research institutions, and funders of research was recently launched. The 'Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers' describes standards, expectations and responsibilities for the proper management and development of academic researchers in universities and higher education colleges across the UK.

The agreement updates the previous Concordat of 1996, by addressing the changes in legislation over the last decade for staff on fixed-term contracts, and takes into account the introduction of the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.

The launch event was attended by staff from the UK funding bodies, Research Councils, government departments, higher education institutions and charities. Professor David Eastwood made HEFCE a signatory of the Concordat. HEFCE will also contribute to the costs of implementing the Concordat over the coming years.

The event also saw the launch of Vitae, the new body incorporating the UK GRAD and UK HERD (Higher Education Researcher Development) support groups. Vitae is supported by Research Councils UK, managed by the career development organisation, CRAC and delivered in partnership with universities. Its aim is to help the higher education sector to support the professional development of researchers and their careers.

For further information, visit the Concordat and Vitae web-sites.