As of 2023, the number of higher education researchers in Canada was 68.60 thousand full-time equivalents. From 2024 to 2028, this figure is forecasted to grow steadily, reaching 74.01 thousand by 2028. Year-over-year analysis shows a gradual annual increase in the number of researchers, with variations of approximately 1.6% in 2025, 1.5% in 2026, 1.5% in 2027, and 1.5% in 2028. Over the next five years, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is expected to be around 1.5%.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Increased investment in research and development.
- Impact of technological advancements on research methods.
- Policy changes affecting funding and the hiring of research staff.
- Global collaboration and its effect on research output in Canada.
