The European Competence Framework for Researchers

• February 3, 2025

The European Competence Framework for Researchers outlines essential skills and abilities that researchers must develop to excel in their fields. It encompasses seven key domains, highlighting the multifaceted nature of modern research.

Cognitive Abilities

Researchers are expected to exhibit advanced cognitive skills, including:

• Abstract, critical, analytical, strategic, and systemic thinking to approach complex problems.
• Problem-solving abilities and creativity to innovate and address challenges effectively.

Working with Others

Collaboration is vital in research, with competencies such as:

• Professional interaction, networking, and teamwork.
• Promoting inclusion and diversity, fostering well-being, and building strong mentor-mentee relationships.

Self-Management

Researchers must manage their professional and personal growth by:

• Developing an entrepreneurial spirit and planning effective self-organization.
• Demonstrating resilience and coping with pressure.

Making an Impact

Creating broader societal and academic contributions includes:

• Publishing and disseminating results to the research community.
• Teaching, communicating with the public, and enhancing science’s impact on policy and society.
• Promoting open innovation and knowledge transfer.

Managing Research

Researchers should master organizational and leadership skills like:

• Resource mobilization, project management, and negotiation.
• Evaluating research and encouraging open access publications.

Doing Research

Core research skills include:

• Expertise in disciplinary and interdisciplinary research.
• Writing research documents while adhering to research ethics and principles of integrity.

Managing Research Tools

Finally, researchers must navigate tools and frameworks by:

• Managing research data, intellectual property rights, and promoting citizen science.
• Utilizing open-source software to enhance accessibility and collaboration.

This framework emphasizes the comprehensive skill set required for researchers to thrive, contributing effectively to academia, industry, and society