In 2023, the number of higher education researchers in the UK stood at 178.14 thousand FTEs. Forecast data indicates growth from 2024 to 2028 with FTEs increasing from 179.65 to 184.72 thousand. Notable increases include a 0.73% year-on-year growth from 2024 to 2025 and a steady rise to 0.67% annually from 2025 onwards. The five-year CAGR through 2028 is approximately 0.77%.
Future trends to watch include technological advancements influencing research methodologies, potential shifts in government funding, and the increasing importance of interdisciplinary and collaborative research efforts in adapting to global challenges.
