Report: Advancing research careers across Europe 31/03/2026

The leading science and technology universities united within CESAER published a new report on 30 March presenting case studies from CESAER Members showcasing practical measures to improve research career stability, strengthen recruitment practices, and enhance support for early-career researchers.

The report «Advancing research careers across Europe» is available for download here.

Europe faces a persistent research brain drain, undermining its ability to compete globally in science and technology. Evidence shows the research workforce is growing, and universities are innovating with long-term career pathways and co-funding schemes. On the other hand, others remain locked in precarious, project-based hiring, as reliance on temporary contracts still exists widely, with significant disparities across countries and institutions.
This uneven landscape limits Europe’s ability to attract and retain talent. To reverse this trend, three priorities are essential: an effective European Research Careers Observatory to monitor job quality and mobility, reform of research assessment, and stronger EU–national co-funding mechanisms for sustainable careers. In this context, a bold “Choose Europe” initiative is crucial to make Europe a magnet for research talent from within Europe and globally. - Manuel Heitor

This 'Advancing research careers across Europe' report builds on and complements the 2024 CESAER’s report ‘Research careers: A critical choice for Europe’.

Click here for further information at CESAER's website.