The Estonian Research Council is pleased to announce the publication of Estonian Research 2025. This comprehensive collection provides an in-depth analysis of Estonian science’s current state, developmental trends, and future prospects. It examines key areas such as research and development funding, human resource development, and the societal impact of science while also addressing topics of current significance to Estonian research.
According to Anu Noorma, Director General of the Estonian Research Council, the compilation serves as a vital tool for science policymakers, researchers, and the broader public: “The sustainability of Estonian science depends on our ability to ensure stable funding, support the growth of young researchers, and enhance the visibility of science in society.”
Key Findings from the Compilation:
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R&D Funding:
In 2023, Estonia’s public sector R&D expenditures accounted for 0.76% of GDP, surpassing the EU average of 0.73% and placing Estonia 8th within the European Union. However, the share of competitive funding in state R&D allocations has increased from 74% in 2019 to 83% by 2024, leading to greater instability in research funding. -
Human Resources:
The internationalization of Estonia’s research community has increased, with the proportion of foreign researchers in non-profit sectors growing from 7.5% in 2014 to 18.1% by 2023. However, the average age of Estonian doctoral entrants has risen to 34.8 years, signaling the need to support the next generation of researchers.
The compilation also highlights the role of science in society and the associated challenges. One contributor, Leading Researcher at Tallinn University of Technology and President of the Estonian Young Academy of Sciences Toomas Vaimann, emphasizes the sustainability of human resources: “The human resources in Estonian research represent the greatest asset of our society, the appreciation and development of which will determine the future of our research.“
Other notable contributors to the compilation include Professor Krista Fischer (University of Tartu), Associate Senior Lecturer Mart Laatsit (Lund University), Professor Tarmo Soomere, Professor Toivo Maimets, and Andres Koppel.
The Estonian Research 2025 collection is available on Estonian Research Council‘s website:
Download the full report
For further information:
Kadri Raudvere
Analyst
Estonian Research Council
+372 5698 1582
kadri.raudvere@etag.ee