Policy for support and development of the staff of the MSc in Oil and Gas Technology

In the Quality Policy of the MSc in Oil and Gas Technology (https://mscpet.ihu.gr/el/quality-policy) and of the Department of Chemistry (http://chem.ihu.gr/index.php/el/programmata-spoudon/politiki-poiotitas) the main axes on which the Department’s Quality Assurance and Improvement Policy is structured are mentioned:

• The continuous improvement of the working conditions of the scientific and administrative staff of the University.
• The development and rational distribution of human resources.

In the MSc in Oil and Gas Technology, the above principles are specialized, and a specific Human Resource (HR) Support and Development Policy is developed where we are committed to cultivating a supportive and dynamic academic environment that enables our staff to excel in their roles and contribute to the overall success of our program. Our staff support and development policy reflects our commitment to fostering professional development, fostering a culture of collaboration and ensuring the wellbeing of our team.

Professional development opportunities:
We recognize the importance of continuous learning and development. Our policy encourages staff members to participate in professional development activities, seminars, and conferences relevant to their roles in the program. The department actively seeks funding and partnerships to provide opportunities for staff to attend conferences, workshops and training sessions that enhance their skills and expertise.

Guidance and Coaching:
We believe in the power of counseling guidance for career development. The program promotes mentoring programs by distinguished foreign speakers, matching experienced staff with those seeking guidance, thus fostering a culture of knowledge transfer and support.

Regular performance reviews:
Regular performance reviews are conducted to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with the program’s objectives. These assessments provide constructive feedback, recognize achievements and identify areas for development.

Work – life balance:
The program is committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance. We implement flexible working arrangements where possible and encourage open communication about managing workload and reducing stress.

Culture without exclusions and collaboration:
We value diversity and inclusion. The department actively promotes an inclusive culture where all staff feel respected, valued, and supported. Collaborative efforts are encouraged, promoting teamwork and community among staff members.

Continuous policy review:
Our staff support and development policy is a living document. We are committed to regularly reviewing and updating the policy to address emerging needs, industry trends and feedback from staff members. Adhering to the above principles outlined in the HR Support and Development Policy, the program aims to create an environment where staff members thrive personally and professionally. We believe that investing in the development of our team ultimately enhances the quality of education and research we provide to our students, contributing to the success and reputation of the program.

In particular, the program has established criteria for developing its staff to continuously upgrade its executive potential. These criteria contribute to the fair and objective selection of teaching staff. The great majority of the professors of the Department have been trained in Universities and Research Centers abroad and have transferred the expertise they acquired to International Hellenic University (IHU). There is a significant participation of the professors of the Department in Greek and International research conferences, the results of which are published in international journals of high prestige. Many of these publications have attracted significant scientific interest, as shown by the large number of cross-citations they achieve. The MSc in Oil and Gas Technology encourages the academic activity of faculty members by introducing innovative teaching methods and the use of new technologies and supports the research project by developing infrastructure, supplying modern instruments, and helping to claim competitive international and Greek research programs. At the same time, it promotes cooperation with professors from abroad, both at the educational and research level. Also, the program’s professors demonstrate increased scientific mobility by participating in international conferences with announcements, which in several cases have won international awards. The continuous upgrading of the program’s infrastructure, with the construction of new or improved existing classrooms, has increased the possibilities for faculty members to introduce new innovative teaching methods. At the same time, the continuous strengthening of the laboratory infrastructure, with the supply of modern technological equipment, also increases the possibilities of participation in complex and demanding Greek and international research protocols. The above actions, on the one hand, strengthen the connection between teaching and research and, on the other hand, promote the scientific and professional development of the teaching staff.