In their statement on improving the working conditions for early-stage researchers in science, the Human Brain Project’s Diversity & Equal Opportunities Committee highlight the significance of the Human Brain Project and other European science collaborations stressing the importance of equal opportunities, equity, diversity, and inclusion for scientific innovation and excellence is central.
It is key to address the practical concerns stemming from disparities in employment conditions across European and global universities, particularly impacting early-stage researchers. These conditions, which often hamper long-term career prospects and exert a disproportional effect on women, give rise to persistent gender and other forms of discrimination. To embark on a thoughtful and ethically grounded response, the Human Brain Project’s Diversity & Equal Opportunities Committee proposed the following considerations…
Firstly, they advocate for the harmonisation of employment norms through a cooperative effort with international organisations, governments, and universities. Such a concerted endeavour would foster job security, equitable compensation, and consistent working conditions for researchers on a global scale. Secondly, to promote the development of a universally recognised equality, diversity and inclusion framework that actively promotes fairness, irrespective of personal circumstances. Additionally, the Human Brain Project’s Diversity & Equal Opportunities Committee lends their support to the establishment of financial support mechanisms, enhanced transparency, deepened commitment, and the mitigation of mobility-related challenges.
According to them, our ethical mission is to facilitate equal opportunities for all, realising the full potential of global scientific research.