The latest data for Global Total Internal R&D Personnel in Scientific Research and Development indicates notable disparities across countries. In 2024, the United Kingdom leads with 50.9 thousand FTEs, followed by Germany at 32.76 thousand and Israel with 29.94 thousand. South Korea's R&D personnel surged by 28.79% in 2023, reflecting the highest year-on-year growth. Conversely, Romania and Latvia exhibited declines, -1.19% and -0.77%, respectively. Over the last five years, the average growth across countries varied significantly, highlighting dynamic R&D environments.
Future trends to watch in R&D personnel include:
- Continued Asia-Pacific growth driven by technological investments.
- Potential EU fluctuations amidst evolving innovation policies.
- Shifts in North American R&D strategies remaining pivotal.
- Vulnerabilities in smaller economies risk reduced R&D capabilities if local policy doesn't prioritize innovation.
Top countries in Total Internal R&D Personnel in Scientific Research and Development by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Units (Full-Time Equivalent) | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 United Kingdom | 50,900 | 2023 | +1.56% | +3.46% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Germany | 32,760 | 2023 | +3.2% | +3.66% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Israel | 29,940 | 2023 | +2.31% | +2.92% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Japan | 22,670 | 2023 | +5.01% | +0.26% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Spain | 21,870 | 2023 | +1.3% | +1.67% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Poland | 21,370 | 2023 | +4.62% | +2.87% | View data |
| 7 | 7 South Korea | 18,480 | 2023 | +15.24% | +28.79% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Canada | 17,420 | 2023 | +1.11% | +1.99% | View data |
| 9 | 9 Italy | 13,200 | 2023 | +2.76% | +2.84% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Hungary | 10,290 | 2023 | +5.37% | +5.05% | View data |
