This is a quick update to a previous post, first published in 2013 and with some additions in 2018-2019. If any details are unclear, please refer back to that post.
In France, the salary of state employees is calculated by multiplying the number of index points associated with a given position with the value of the index point. The idea behind this system is that the number of points is fixed and the point value is adjusted, e.g. to compensate for inflation. One small problem is that this value has been practically unchanged from 2010: an increase is planned for 2022 (it is an election year, after all!) but its quantum is unknown.
This simple revaluation mechanism was therefore replaced by a much more complicated one, the PPCR (the gory details can be found here - in French) and somewhat compensated by a bonus system (the RIPEC).
Some changes since my 2013 post are:
- The CR2 and CR1 ranks were merged into one (CRCN). Young researchers can thus acceed to higher seniority levels without the 4-year wait for promotion to CR1.
- The hors classe (HC) rank for CRs was created. This rank extends the CR pay scale to greater seniority, but is not a prerequisite for promotion to a DR position.
- The number of index points for the various pay grade levels increased. The new values are available here.
- In 2021 the statutory bonus increased, to 1620 €/year for DR and 2200 €/year for CR positions. As of 2022, it stands at 2800 € for all researchers.
- As of 2022, the performance bonus (formerly known as PEDR) still starts at 3500 €/year, but is only awarded for three years (instead of four), with a mandatory waiting period of one year before one can reapply.
I have updated the graph with the evolution of my net salary, including the statutory bonus, but not the performance bonus. I have also left out any extra income (from teaching or expertise work).
