The European Charter for Researchers is

• a set of general principles and requirements which specify the role, responsibilities and rights of researchers and of those who hire and/or fund researchers;
• it aims to ensure that the nature of the relationship between researchers and employers or funders is conducive to positive outcomes with regard to producing, transferring, sharing and disseminating knowledge and technological development, and to the career development of researchers;
• it recognizes the value of all forms of mobility as a tool for enhancing the professional development of researchers;
• it provides a framework for researchers, employers and funders, encouraging them to act responsibly and as professionals within their working environment, as well as to recognize each other as such;
• it is intended for all researchers in the European Union, at all stages of their career;
• it governs all fields of research in the public and private sector, regardless of the nature of the appointment or employment, the legal status of the employer or the type of organization or institution in which the research is carried out;
• it takes into account the multiple roles played by researchers, who are appointed not only to carry out research and/or development activities, but are also involved in supervision, mentoring, management or administrative tasks.