The European Charter for Researches sets forth: 

• «general principles and requirements applicable to researchers», meant to safeguard: la research freedom; respect for ethical principles; professional responsibility; professional attitude; compliance with contractual and legal obligations; financial accountability; good practice in research; dissemination and utilization of results; commitment towards the public opinion; compliance in the relation with supervisors; fulfillment of managerial and supervision duties; attention for continuing professional development;
• «general principles and requirements applicable to employers and funders», meant to safeguard recognition of the professionalism of all researchers; prohibition of any form of discrimination (based on gender, age, ethnic, national or social origins, religion, sexual orientation etc.); stimulating research environment; flexible working conditions; stability and permanence of employment (if possible); fair and attractive terms as to funding and salaries; respect for gender balance; processing of strategies for the professional development of researchers; recognition of the value of geographical and inter-disciplinary mobility; access to research training and continuous professional development; access to career advice services and assistance in job placement; recognition of intellectual property rights; availability of a supervisor having adequate experience; fair balance between teaching and research activities; adoption of independent and transparent assessment systems; existence of adequate procedures for handling complaints and appeals by the researchers, as well as of any conflicts between supervisors and researchers at the beginning of their careers; participation in consultation, decision-making and information bodies of the institutions they work for; adoption of recruitment procedures that comply with the principles established by the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.