The number of higher education researchers in Mexico saw significant fluctuations over the past decade. In 2013, there was an initial increase of 1.25%, but the trend quickly reversed with notable annual declines. From 2014 to 2023, there was a marked decrease, culminating in a value of 37.01 units in 2023, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 1.49% that year, and a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of -2.44% over the last five years.

Beginning in 2024, forecasts indicate a continued decrease, with the projected value dropping to 34.26 units by 2028, following a 5-year CAGR forecast of -1.23%. This shrinkage of approximately 6.02% over the next five years highlights persistent challenges in this sector.

Future trends to watch for include:

Impact of governmental policies and funding on higher education research
Potential shifts in enrollment rates and their effects on research staffing
Technological advancements and their influence on research methodologies and needs
International collaborations and their role in stabilizing or reviving research numbers