In 2023, the United Kingdom led globally in terms of total internal R&D personnel in professional, scientific, and technical activities, tallying at 80.24 thousand full-time equivalents, displaying a modest growth of 3.49% from the previous year. Germany followed with 64.48 thousand, while South Korea, despite being third at 35.17 thousand, exhibited a significant 14.07% increase. Notably, New Zealand mirrored South Korea's substantial growth with a 14.03% increase, although from a considerably lower base. Meanwhile, Japan saw a slight decline. Over the last five years, Lithuania showcased the strongest average annual growth rate with a CAGR of 7.54%, reflecting a robust upward trajectory.
Future trends to watch include:
- The acceleration of digital transformation, particularly in AI and technological innovation, likely increasing demand for R&D personnel in leading economies like the UK and Germany.
- Asia's growing influence, where countries like South Korea could further amplify their R&D efforts, potentially reshaping global leadership dynamics in science and technology.
- The competitive push for sustainability innovation, potentially upscaling R&D personnel requirements in environmental and energy sectors globally.
Top countries in Total Internal R&D Personnel in Professional, Scientific and Technical Activities by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Units (Full-Time Equivalent) | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 United Kingdom | 80,240 | 2023 | +2.3% | +3.49% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Germany | 64,480 | 2023 | +3.27% | +3.41% | View data |
| 3 | 3 South Korea | 35,170 | 2023 | +9.89% | +14.07% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Spain | 34,280 | 2023 | +1.62% | +2.34% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Israel | 30,550 | 2023 | +2.37% | +2.17% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Canada | 29,210 | 2023 | +1.24% | +2.44% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Poland | 27,120 | 2023 | +4.86% | +3.62% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Japan | 26,320 | 2023 | +3.88% | -0.015% | View data |
| 9 | 9 Italy | 24,730 | 2023 | +3.42% | +3.52% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Australia | 12,460 | 2023 | +1.71% | +2.9% | View data |
