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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Many PhD holders continually seek the best countries for research, driven by the dual aspirations of advancing scientific innovation and securing meaningful employment.Over the years, however, international research opportunities have often been constrained by economic instability and shifting global priorities.Yet, nations such as the United States, South Korea, and several Scandinavian countries have steadfastly upheld their commitment to robust R&D ecosystems, allocating substantial investments that yield remarkable outcomes for scientists and scholars alike.To provide a broader view of global prospects in academia and innovation, here are some of the best countries for research, as identified by Education.com and Investopedia.Best Countries for Research 1. United States The United States continues to affirm its unwavering stature as the best country for research, channeling vast financial resources into unlocking the full potential of science and technology.As early as 2015, American researchers had already surpassed their global counterparts in publishing high-impact scientific papers, reinforcing the nation’s dominance in pioneering discoveries and academic excellence.More recently, the U.S. has further amplified its commitment, allocating an impressive $210 billion toward research and development.This ambitious budget includes $48.6 billion for the National Institutes of Health, $16.5 billion dedicated to climate science and clean energy innovation, $2.8 billion for the Cancer Moonshot initiative, and $1.4 billion aimed at advancing STEM education, as per Investopedia. 2. South KoreaSouth Korea receives flying colors among the world’s most technologically advanced countries propelled by its relentless ambition to establish itself as a global technology powerhouse.With an impressive 32 percent of its academic degrees awarded in STEM disciplines, the country continues to nurture a research-driven ecosystem centered on scientific excellence and technological advancement.To reinforce its standing as a frontier of innovation, the Korea Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology sanctioned a 4.6% increase in R&D expenditure for 2022, amounting to 23.5 trillion won (approximately $20.7 billion).This strategic expansion encompasses nearly 1,200 research initiatives, reflecting South Korea’s tenacious pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries. 3. Switzerland In recent years, Switzerland has distinguished itself through exceptional achievements in research and innovation, supported by a deeply rooted culture of excellence.According to the State Secretariat for Education, Switzerland consistently allocates substantial funding to foster competitive research environments and international collaboration.While passion often drives scientific pursuit, Switzerland ensures that researchers are also well-rewarded for their expertise.As reported by CareerAddict, the average scientist earns around $95,000 annually, with top professionals surpassing $100,000, particularly within the private sector. 4. SwedenSweden achieved an impressive score of 64.5 in the 2024 Global Innovation Index, earning global recognition for its leadership in green technology and its enduring stride toward education.In 2023, the Swedish government allocated SEK 221.8 billion to R&D, an increase of SEK 5.9 billion from the previous year.The business enterprise sector dominated this investment, representing 75% of total spending, while higher education and government institutions followed as key contributors to the nation’s thriving research ecosystem.5. Israel By the global measure, Israel stands unmatched as the best country for research, channeling an extraordinary 4.21% of its GDP to R&D across basic, applied, and experimental fields.The OECD reports that only a few nations including South Korea (4.15%), Japan (3.49%), Finland (3.32%), and Sweden (3.30%), come close to Israel’s remarkable commitment.Over the past decades, Israel has experienced sustained growth in R&D, driven by both government initiatives and private enterprise.Among its most transformative programs is Yozma, Hebrew for initiative, which catalyzed the nation’s venture capital ecosystem by investing in emerging funds and attracting foreign investors through innovative risk insurance. The best countries for research stand as testaments to the transformative power of knowledge, innovation, and global collaboration. Their forward-thinking policies, substantial R&D budgets, and commitment to nurturing talent have created fertile grounds where ideas evolve into world-changing innovations.Editor’s Choice: List of 10 Best Universities in Europe for 2025-2026 Academic YearClick here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
