Fair academic careers

At the University of Bern, fairness is a fundamental principle that shapes the institution’s approach to appointments, promotions, and resource allocation. In line with the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), evaluation processes should be based on transparent, context-specific criteria. We consider not only publications but all research outputs recognized by ORCID, including datasets and software.

The university is committed to creating an environment where talent is recognized and actively nurtured. Structured professional development programs support faculties, researchers, and students, helping to dismantle systemic barriers, foster a culture of equal opportunity, and establish sustainable pathways to equity.

By embedding fair assessment practices across all areas of the institution, we promote a diverse and inclusive academic culture in which excellence and equity are both valued.

Learn more about our strategies for fair academic careers in the video below.

The university highly values a comprehensive assessment of research achievements; a purely quantitative approach is no longer appropriate. Young researchers make a wide variety of contributions to scientific progress. These achievements must be measured fairly using the right assessment and evaluation practices Prof. Dr. Andrew Chan, Vice-Rector for International and Academic Careers

Fair framework conditions for academic careers

Transparent and structured recruitment

Job advertisements are based on clearly defined criteria and evaluation parameters, and salary scales are publicly accessible.

Responsible assessment practices

The evaluation of applicants aligns with the principles of the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA). A broad spectrum of achievements – from teaching and database development to societal impact – is taken into account. Data analyses are always interpreted in context, and quantitative indicators complement, but never replace, qualitative insights. Further information on the university’s institutional research assessment is available here.

Diversity and inclusion

Equal opportunity officers participate in appointment committees to help balanced gender representation. The COMET career program supports female postdoctoral researchers as well as trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals. Applications from members of underrepresented groups are explicitly encouraged. Regular workshops address racism and promote critical reflection on power dynamics. Additionally, all UniBE members with a SWITCH account have access to an online course on unconscious biases, produced by the University of Lausanne. More details on equal opportunity initiatives can be found here.

The Academic Careers Office of the University of Bern ...

• supports early-career researchers through a range of funding instruments,
• offers skills development programs and career development training,
• provides guidance on career planning, particularly during the postdoctoral stage,
• works closely with university partners – including Vice-Rectorates, the Research Commission, Human Resources, the Office for Equal Opportunities, and the University Library – to facilitate exchange on talent development, provide expertise to university leadership, advise departments, collect best practices, develop model initiatives, and foster collaborations.

Learn more about the funding opportunities and activities of the Academic Careers Office. Explore opportunities for early-career researchers and visit our Junior Academics Portal.