In November 2020, Sapienza was awarded the "HR Excellence in Research" award, a recognition given by the European Commission within the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers - HRS4R initiative aimed at implementing the rules and principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (C&C).

The European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct, adopted by Recommendation of March 11, 2005, constitute a set of general principles and requirements specifying the role, responsibilities and rights of researchers and of organisations that recruit and/or fund researchers. The Charter aims to ensure that the nature of the relationship between researchers and employers or funders fosters the production, transfer, sharing and dissemination of knowledge and technological development and is conducive to the professional development of researchers.

The Award was granted based on Sapienza's constant commitment to improving policies for the implementation of the Charter's principles, following a specific procedure:

1. Internal analysis of the state of the art of university regulations and current situation concerning C&C principles;
2. Development of a Human Resources Strategy to fill any gaps encountered in the course of internal analysis;
3. Accreditation by the European Commission (recognition as "HR Excellence in Research");

Within this procedural framework, Sapienza set up a Steering Committee to oversee the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) implementation and monitor it within the University.

In 2022, Sapienza submitted to the European Commission an Internal Review on how the original action plan was implemented, as well as a new OTM-R document. Following the European Commission's positive assessment of this documentation, Sapienza's recognition of “HR Excellence in research” was confirmed.

Sapienza is therefore currently engaged in the implementation of the second phase of the HRS4R Action Plan (2023-2025), with an action plan that envisages further initiatives to promote the professional development of researchers, a research-friendly environment and the strengthening of Sapienza's international attractiveness.

A further review will be carried out in 2026. The HRS4R implementation process will continue on a cyclical basis and will also be subject to evaluation by the European Commission, including through site visits.