Program of Fundamental Scientific Research in Russia
National Project Science
Medical research in Russia
Main article: Clinical trials in Russia
Digitalization of Science
Main article: Digitalization of Science
Grants and Awards for Scientists
Main article: Grants and Awards for Scientists in Russia
Science in Moscow
Main article: Science in Moscow
Funding
2026: Ministry of Science and Higher Education allocates RUB 8 billion for the development of Russian scientific instruments
On June 2, 2026, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation announced a tender for research and experimental design work aimed at developing domestic civilian instrumentation. Approximately RUB 8.71 billion has been allocated for the project.
The winner will be tasked with creating modern instruments for various sectors, including medicine, ecology, industry, and agriculture. The project aims to implement domestic technologies and reduce dependence on imported components. The list of priority items for development includes:
- A scientific meter for measuring optical density in microvolumes;
- An inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES);
- A spectrophotometer for measuring optical density in microvolumes;
- A fluorescence microscope;
- A tandem quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (QTOF MS);
- An inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS);
- A matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (MALDI-TOF);
- An atom probe tomograph;
- A flow cytometer;
- A digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device;
- A cryomagnetic complex for measuring the physical properties of materials
The implementation period for the program to develop and commercialize the scientific instrument must be at least five years. This includes the entire experimental design work phase (not exceeding three years) and the commercialization stage of the developed product (at least two years), which is to be funded from off-budget sources. Additionally, a center for technological developments in scientific instrumentation must be established, or an existing structural unit within an organization must be granted the status of such a center. Qualified personnel with experience in product development and its commercialization must be involved in executing the project.[1]
2025
Russia's federal budget expenditure on science rose by 5.3% in a year, reaching RUB 792.1 billion
By the end of 2025, federal budget spending on civil science in Russia reached 792.1 billion rubles, up 5.3% in constant prices compared to 2024. In current prices, the increase amounted to RUB 75.25 billion. These are the figures from the Federal Treasury for 2025, analyzed by the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge at HSE University and published on June 26, 2026.
According to HSE analysts’ calculations, spending on civil science accounted for 2.5% of total federal budget expenditures and 0.4% of GDP. The main driver behind the growth in civil science funding was increased financing for fundamental research. Expenditure on this type of work grew from RUB 268.1 billion in 2024 to RUB 319.7 billion in 2025—an increase of RUB 51.6 billion in current prices, or 13.7% in constant terms. The share of fundamental research in total civil science spending rose from 37.4% to 40.4% over the year, while its proportion in federal budget outlays grew from 0.89% to 1.01%.
In 2025, RUB 472.4 billion was allocated for applied civilian research—1.5 times more than funding for fundamental science. These funds were distributed across four main areas:
- national economy – 74%;
- healthcare – 9.7%;
- general government issues – 9.4%;
- education – 6.1%.
Between 2010 and 2025, civil science spending in constant prices increased by 1.3%. Funding for fundamental research went up by 18.2%, whereas applied research declined by 7.7%, causing its share of total expenditure to fall to 59.6%. Over the same period, the share of fundamental research grew from 34.6% to 40.4%.
Based on comparable data for 2024, Russia ranked sixth globally in terms of budget allocations for civilian research and development per capita, adjusted by purchasing power parity. Ahead of Russia are the United States, Japan, Germany, South Korea, and France.[2]
The Russian Academy of Sciences Named the Top 13 Scientific Achievements of Russia in 2025
On May 26, 2026, RAS President and academician Gennady Krashnikov presented a list of scientific achievements by Russian researchers for the year 2025. The list includes the following results:
- A new closed system of equations for turbulent flows has been created. The model contains a minimal number of tuning parameters.
- Tests of the Siberian Radiogeliograph have been completed. The device recorded an impulsive source with a temperature of up to 60 billion degrees Kelvin in the Sun's corona.
- Navigation methods for mobile robots have been developed. The proposed graph-based approach does not require significant computational resources.
- Algorithms for processing data from a hyperspectrometer on the ISS have been created. The device provides imaging in 130 spectral bands.
- A concept of a photocatalyst that dynamically restructures under light exposure has been proposed. Using phenothiazine as an example, the formation of active dimers and oligomers was demonstrated.
- A model of the Kamchatka earthquake with a magnitude of 8.8 has been constructed. Maximum rock displacement reached 15 meters, and tsunami wave heights ranged from 10 to 16 meters.
- Chemosynthetic communities have been discovered at depths of 6–9.5 km. The zone extends for 2,500 km along the Kuril-Kamchatka and Aleutian trenches.
- A recombinant allergy vaccine "Allergarda" has been created to treat birch pollen allergies. The drug does not contain whole allergens, and the treatment course is reduced from 30 to 3–5 injections.
- An analysis of the impact of spatial factors on the macroeconomic dynamics of Russia up to 2035 has been conducted. The need to supplement sectoral projects with spatial policy measures has been justified.
- A fundamental work "Peoples of the Soviet Union and the Great Victory. 1941–1945" has been prepared. Scientists from all CIS countries participated in the project.
- A monograph on drivers and trends of the global economy over the past 50 years has been published. Based on big data analysis, a strategic planning scheme for the Russian Federation has been proposed.
- The first domestic MRI-compatible pacemaker has been created. The device supports remote monitoring and uses machine learning to detect arrhythmias.
- New varieties have been developed: soft winter wheat "Rodion" and potato "Alfa". Wheat yield reaches 14 t/ha with a protein content of 16–17.9%, while the potato is a mid-season table variety resistant to many diseases and pests.[3]
Federal budget spending on science grew to ₽717 billion in a year
Federal budget expenditures for civilian scientific research increased by ₽25.1 billion in 2024, reaching nearly ₽717 billion. This is evidenced by data from an analytical report by the HSE Institute of Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge, published in July 2025.
As Kommersant reports, experts analyzed statistics from the Federal Treasury. Scientific funding accounted for 2.38% of total federal budget expenditures, the lowest figure since 2017. As a share of GDP, spending on science amounted to 0.36%, the minimum level since 2010.
The majority of funds, totaling ₽448.7 billion, were allocated to support applied research. Their share of total civilian science funding decreased slightly from 64.7% in 2023 to 62.5% in 2024.
The main recipients of funds allocated for applied science included the state corporation Roscosmos with ₽155.3 billion, or 34.6% of the total volume. The Ministry of Industry and Trade received ₽123.7 billion, or 27.6%, while the Ministry of Science and Higher Education received ₽50 billion, or 11.1%.
Expenditures on fundamental research grew by nearly ₽24 billion compared to 2023, reaching ₽268.1 billion. Their share in the total volume of funds for scientific inquiry also increased.
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education received the largest volume of funding for fundamental research — ₽225.3 billion, or 84% of the total sum. The Kurchatov Institute received ₽13.3 billion, or 5%, MSU received ₽6.3 billion, or 2.4%, and the Russian Academy of Sciences received ₽5.7 billion, or 2.1%.
According to expert forecasts, the state will increase overall science funding. In February 2025, President Vladimir Putin spoke about the need to increase science funding to 2% of GDP by 2030.[4]
Allocation of ₽500 Billion for "Megascience" Research Projects
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia published a draft government decree in early February 2025. The document proposes increasing funding for the synchrotron and neutron research development program by ₽46.8 billion. As a result, the total amount allocated for the program’s implementation will reach ₽499.9 billion.
According to Vedomosti, the increased funding is due to extended timelines for constructing "megascience"-class facilities and indexation based on projected inflation levels. The completion deadline for the Siberian Synchrotron Radiation Source has been moved to December 31, 2025, owing to project complexity and import substitution requirements.
Modernization of the Kurchatov Synchrotron Radiation Source has been extended by two years, until December 31, 2028. This decision was made to ensure uninterrupted operation of at least one synchrotron radiation source in Russia.
The manufacture of research stations for the International Center for Neutron Research in Gatchina has also been postponed by two years, until December 31, 2026. The delay is linked to sanctions and technical issues with the facility building.
Andrei Rogachev, Director of the Landau Institute for Theoretical Physics and Research at MIPT, emphasizes that megascience centers host joint research teams, including international groups. These installations are critical for advancing modern science in Russia.
Andrei Kuznetsov, Director of the Institute of Laser and Plasma Technologies at MEPhI, highlights the importance of synchrotron and neutron studies for understanding atomic behavior in materials. These technologies have applications in medical, biological research, and materials science.
Russia is implementing eight "megascience"-class projects, including the NICA collider in Dubna. The program also includes training scientific personnel and organizing specialized conferences for researchers in synchrotron and neutron studies.[5]
Funding for fundamental scientific research in Russia increased by 21% to ₽55 billion
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia is increasing funding for fundamental scientific research by 21% in 2025, bringing the total amount to ₽55 billion. The decision was made as part of expanding government support for scientific activities on November 7, 2024.
According to Vesti News, the overall budget for scientific research will increase by ₽76.7 billion in 2025 compared to 2024 levels. Funding for applied scientific research will grow by 7%.
Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov emphasized the priority of supporting fundamental research within the national science budget. He noted that a large-scale upgrade of university and research institution equipment has been carried out — nearly 60% of devices have been replaced with new ones, with 40% of these newly acquired instruments manufactured in Russia.
Deputy Finance Minister of Russia Pavel Kadochnikov announced that the government is preparing 110 amendments to the federal budget draft for the period 2025–2027. These changes include an increase in spending on the State Program "Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation" by ₽60.7 billion.
According to the TV channel, funding for civilian science will reach ₽674.5 billion in 2025, followed by a rise to ₽728.6 billion in 2026. In 2027, ₽688.4 billion is planned to be allocated for these purposes. An additional ₽21.8 billion will be provided in 2025 for implementing measures under the scientific and technological development program.
Expanding financial support for scientific research aims to enhance Russia's technological independence and strengthen its domestic scientific base. Increased budget allocations will accelerate work on key areas of both fundamental and applied research.[6]
Civil science budget to grow by 15% to ₽674.5 billion
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia announced in October 2024 a significant increase in funding for civil science in the country. According to the ministry, spending on civilian research will grow by more than 15% in 2025 compared to previous years.
According to the Russian Ministry of Finance, budget expenditures for civilian science will amount to ₽674.5 billion in 2025 and ₽728.6 billion in 2026, compared to 2024 levels.
As reported by TASS Information Agency, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Andrey Omelchuk emphasized the unprecedented nature of this growth during a meeting of the State Duma Committee on Science and Higher Education.
 | Spending on civilian science will increase in 2025. This is the most significant rise in recent years, Omelchuk noted. |  |
Under the new budget, additional allocations are planned for infrastructure projects. Specifically, ₽2 billion annually will be allocated for repairs to the building of the Presidium of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Additionally, over ₽2 billion will be directed toward enhancing anti-terrorist measures at higher education institutions across the country.
Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov announced a substantial increase in funding for fundamental research. In 2025, these funds will rise by 21% compared to 2024. Furthermore, approximately five billion rubles are planned to boost salaries of educators teaching fundamental disciplines.
Despite the overall positive trend, research from the Higher School of Economics highlights certain long-term trends in science funding. According to forecasts, the share of spending on civil science within the federal budget may gradually decline: from 2.68% in 2024 to 2% in 2026.
To compensate for potential reductions in state funding, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education plans to increase private investment in scientific fields. It is expected that by 2030, business contributions to science will reach 43%, and by 2035 – 50%, promoting balanced development of the scientific sector and strengthening ties between academia and industry.[7]
2024
Number of personnel engaged in research and development in full-time equivalent - 734.5 thousand person-years
In 2024, the number of personnel engaged in research and development in full-time equivalent in Russia amounted to 734.5 thousand person-years. This is stated in a report published on October 28, 2025 by the Higher School of Economics Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge. More details here.
Decline in the number of researchers with academic degrees to 89,586
The number of researchers holding a Candidate of Sciences or Doctor of Sciences degree employed in Russian scientific organizations reached 89,586 in 2024. This figure represents a 20% decrease compared to 2015. The data was released in September 2025.
According to "Vedomosti", the calculations are based on statistical information from Rosstat for 85 regions of Russia, excluding four new subjects of the Federation. A decline in the number of scientific personnel with academic degrees has been observed annually across all federal districts of the country since 2015.
The largest decrease affected Doctors of Sciences, whose numbers dropped by nearly 23% to 21,705 in 2024. The number of Candidates of Sciences fell by 19% over the same period to 67,881 specialists working in scientific organizations.
Tatyana Klyachko, Director of the Center for Economics of Lifelong Education at the RANEPA, noted that official statistics account only for employees of scientific organizations. Many holders of academic degrees work in higher education institutions, combining teaching and research activities. According to her, about 39,600 Doctors and 146,000 Candidates of Sciences worked in state universities in 2019.
Alena Nefedova, a leading researcher at the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge at the HSE, pointed to financial and organizational reasons for the decline in researchers with academic degrees. Obtaining a Doctor of Sciences degree is primarily hindered by tuition fees for doctoral studies, low stipends, and the need to combine study with work.
Tatyana Klyachko highlighted stricter publication requirements and restricted access to foreign scientific journals, which increase the time required to publish scientific articles. Alena Nefedova further noted a shortage of dissertation councils as a factor complicating thesis defenses.[8]
Russia ranked fifth in the world for budget-funded science spending
In July 2025, it was reported that Russia maintained its fifth position globally in budget-funded civilian research and development (R&D) expenditure, investing $26.9 billion in 2024 at purchasing power parity ruble rates. This accounted for 2.4% of total budget spending and 0.4% of the country’s GDP.
According to “Rossiyskaya Gazeta”, citing data from the Institute of Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Russia is surpassed by the United States ($97.3 billion), Japan ($97.1 billion), Germany ($55.4 billion), and South Korea ($31.5 billion).
In 2024, federal budget funding for civilian science in Russia reached ₽716.9 billion, an increase of ₽25.1 billion compared to 2023. The majority of federal funds were allocated to applied research — ₽448.7 billion, representing 62.6% of the total amount.
The main recipients of budgetary support for applied research were Roscosmos State Corporation, receiving ₽155.3 billion or 34.6% of the total sum; the Ministry of Industry and Trade, which received ₽123.7 billion or 27.6%; and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, obtaining ₽50 billion or 11.1%.
Spending on fundamental research rose to ₽268.1 billion in both current and constant prices compared to 2023. The Ministry of Science and Higher Education was the primary recipient, receiving ₽225.3 billion, accounting for 84% of total expenditure in this category.
The Kurchatov Institute received ₽13.3 billion or 5% of the total funding for fundamental research. Moscow State University was allocated ₽6.3 billion or 2.4%, and the Russian Academy of Sciences received ₽5.7 billion or 2.1%.
The government plans to increase science spending to 2% of GDP by 2030, while in 2024 it slightly exceeded 1%. A significant portion is expected to come from non-budgetary sources, contributing approximately 30%, with the remainder funded by the state.[9]
The Russian Government Allocated 450 Billion Rubles for the Synchrotron and Neutron Research Program
On April 8, 2024, the Russian Government announced the extension of the federal scientific and technical program for the development of synchrotron and neutron research until 2030 and beyond. 450 billion rubles from the federal budget have been allocated for its implementation.
This initiative was originally approved in 2020. It entails the creation of new "megascience" class facilities and complexes for nuclear medicine, as well as the modernization of existing ones. Additionally, funds will be used to provide state support for research projects within the program's scientific fields, as well as for training specialists and scientific personnel.
Under the project, synchrotron radiation sources will be created in Novosibirsk Oblast, in the city of Protvino (Moscow Oblast), and on Russky Island. Plans include modernizing the Kurchatov specialized synchrotron radiation source, upgrading and commissioning a specialized synchrotron radiation source in Zelenograd, establishing a scientific-educational medical center for nuclear medicine and hadron therapy based on the Kurchatov Institute, and commissioning at least 25 research stations at the International Center for Neutron Research in Gatchina (Leningrad Oblast).
| | It is important to do everything necessary to rapidly build our own competencies in critically significant industries and achieve technological sovereignty for our country, — notes Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. | |
The program will be implemented in three stages. The final stage is scheduled for 2028–2032: during this period, the network of research infrastructure and neutron research facilities is expected to expand. The creation of research infrastructure that surpasses existing and planned international synchrotron radiation sources in technical specifications will be completed, ensuring its further development. Technical and clinical trials and registration of new medical devices will also be conducted.[10]
2023
Russia's federal budget expenditures on civilian science reached RUB 691.8 billion for the year
Russia's federal budget spending on civilian science increased by RUB 60.1 billion in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching RUB 691.8 billion. This was announced on July 3, 2024. The growth amounted to 2.3% in constant prices, indicating positive dynamics in scientific funding against the backdrop of economic growth.
According to data from the HSE University Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge, the share of appropriations for civilian research and development in federal budget expenditures rose to 2.76% in 2023, compared to 2.51% in 2022.
The majority of funding—RUB 447.4 billion (64.7%)—was allocated to support applied research. The amount of funds earmarked for these purposes increased by 8.8% in constant prices compared to 2022.
Of the total expenditure on civilian applied research, about 74% was directed toward developing the national economy, accounting for 47.4% of the overall federal funding for civilian science.
Basic research received RUB 244.3 billion in 2023, representing 35.3% of total spending on civilian science. Despite a 7.7% decrease in this amount in constant prices compared to 2022, funding for basic research exceeded the 2017 level by 23.5%.
The vast majority of funds (99.96%) were directed toward implementing state programs. The key program remains "Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian_Federation", which received RUB 542.1 billion in 2023, accounting for 78.4% of total spending on civilian science.
Among the main budget fund administrators under the "Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation" program, Russia's Ministry_of_Science_and_Higher_Education (RUB 261.9 billion) and the Ministry_of_Industry_and_Trade (RUB 123.3 billion) lead.[11]
Government allocated RUB 15.5 billion to scientists for new domestic instruments
The government allocated RUB 15.5 billion rubles to scientists for new domestic instruments, which is RUB 3.7 billion more than the previous year. This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko on January 11, 2023.
A total of 202 applications were submitted for grants in 2023. Each organization had to provide a set of mandatory documents, including an instrument base upgrade program and a justification for the need for scientific-laboratory instruments or equipment. The grant amount in each case was determined based on several parameters: the volume of the instrument base, the direction of the organization's scientific activity, its performance, technological advancement, asset efficiency, and the number of researchers.
Leading organizations that were not participants in the "Priority 2030" strategic academic leadership program in 2022, aimed at supporting development programs of higher education institutions implemented jointly with scientific organizations, were allowed to participate in the selection.
The largest grant amounts totaled RUB 567.5 million and RUB 454 million. Their recipients became Lomonosov Moscow State University and P.N. Lebedev Physical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Additionally, large grants worth RUB 340.5 million and RUB 227 million will be provided to 23 organizations from 11 regions of Russia.
As noted by the Minobrnauki, the ministry is systematically increasing requirements for the minimum volume of domestic equipment purchases. In 2021, this figure was approximately 10%, in 2022 it was around 15%, and in 2023, a value of at least 20% for domestic equipment purchases has been approved for organizations.
| | We will continue to regularly align with the professional community to support our researchers and create conditions for achieving breakthrough results. It should be emphasized that updating the instrument base under today's realities is aimed not only at producing competitive technologies but also at reducing dependence on foreign components, — stated Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Valery Falkov.[12] | |
2022
State support for science and technology in Russia reached 1.2 trillion rubles over the year. Who received these funds
By the end of 2022, approximately 1.2 trillion rubles were allocated for the development of science and technology in Russia. The budget was distributed through direct state support (123 measures implemented from budgetary funds and 83 from quasi-budgetary resources) and indirect support (24 tax measures). This information is reported in materials published by the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge at HSE University on April 18, 2024.
Almost 72% of direct budgetary support for science and technology goes to three roughly equivalent groups of measures. These include state assignments for fundamental and applied research (219 billion rubles, or 21.7%), subsidies to organizations (224 billion rubles, 22.2%), and state assignments for scientific research and experimental design work (202.4 billion rubles, or 28%). Government companies' procurement of R&D accounted for 155 billion rubles (15.4%), while funds distributed through the Innovation Development Institute amounted to 89.9 billion rubles (8.9%).
The study states that 98 measures, which account for 81.8% of all budgetary spending on science and technology, are managed by six agencies. These include the Ministry of Science and Higher Education (40.7%), Ministry of Industry and Trade (16.7%), Roscosmos (14.9%), Rosatom (4.6%), Ministry of Health (3.2%), and Ministry of Digital Development (1.7%). The remaining 42 measures, representing 18.2% of total budgetary expenditures, are managed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Rosrybolovstvo, the Federal Medical-Biological Agency, Rospotrebnadzor, Rospatent, the Academy of Sciences, Lomonosov Moscow State University, and others.
Approximately 70.3% of the total funding allocated for science and technology development (in the form of subsidies and budgetary investments) goes to universities and scientific organizations. About 15.4% is directed to enterprises supporting R&D, with the rest distributed among innovation development institutes (3.5%), science foundations (6.8%), small and medium-sized businesses (3.1%), and others.[13]
Science funding in Russian universities has grown
In 2022, spending on science in Russian universities increased by 1% in real terms (adjusted for inflation) and totaled 155 billion rubles. This data was released by the Institute of Statistical Studies and Knowledge Economics (ISIZE) at HSE University (National Research University Higher School of Economics).
The main source of funding for science is the federal budget: the share of state funding grew by 4.1% over the year to 60%. In absolute terms, the state’s contribution amounted to 92.8 billion rubles. Meanwhile, the role of private business in funding scientific activities fell to 27%. The share of foreign participation in financing Russian science was 0.5%. The bulk of the remaining funding comes from university funds. According to experts surveyed by "Kommersant", the increase in state funding may signal growing government interest in commercializing the results of scientific work.
Universities have also expanded their involvement in developing advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) — technologies controlled by computers or microelectronics for designing, producing, or processing goods. The share of universities in AMT development rose to 25.2%.
As ISIZE Director Leonid Gokhberg notes, while authorities are increasing funding for science, they also demand a more effective return on investment. He attributes the decline in business participation to shrinking financial capacity within the private sector of the economy.
Sergey Borisov, Chairman of the Council of Trustees of "OPORA Russia", stated that the reduction in business investment in science is a "negative trend," explaining it by insufficient competition levels.
| | Most likely, businesses have not yet reached the level of development that allows them to view scientific achievements as tools for competitive advantage," he believes.[14] | |
Civil science expenditures in Russia have been steadily increasing in recent years
In 2022, federal budget appropriations for civil science amounted to 631.7 billion rubles, marking a peak since 2010. According to data from the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEK) at the HSE University, spending has been steadily growing since 2017. The study was published in late July 2023.
According to the report, civil science expenditures in current prices rose by 1.5 times in 2022, while in constant prices they increased by 1.5% (up 4.6% compared to 2018). The growth rate of budget funds for civil science outpaced overall government spending increases, even against the backdrop of challenging economic conditions over recent years, as noted in the report.
A significant share (60.9% in 2022) of federal budget appropriations for civil science is traditionally spent on supporting applied research, primarily aimed at developing the national economy (42.8% of allocations), health care (6.9%), and education (5.7%). In current prices, total allocations for applied research grew 2.5 times from 2010 (from 155.5 billion to 384.4 billion rubles in 2022), but in constant terms decreased by 5.6%.
Funding for fundamental science, on the contrary, increased at accelerated rates: between 2010–2022, the volume of allocations for these purposes tripled in current prices (from 82.2 billion to 247.3 billion rubles), and by 14.9% in constant prices. As a result, the share of fundamental research in total civil science appropriations rose from 34.6% to 39.1% during this period.
According to the study, the largest recipient of civil science spending is the State Program "Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation" (518.1 billion rubles, or 82% of total allocations in 2022). Nearly half — 247.3 billion rubles — goes toward supporting fundamental research.[15]
2021
Science spending drops to 1% of GDP, compared to 3% in leading countries
In Russia, the share of R&D spending was 1.05% of GDP in the early 2000s, around 1.1% between 2015 and 2017, and 1% in 2021. Instead of increasing, science funding is declining!
Leading countries invest over 3% of their GDP.
The volume of project funding by the Russian Science Foundation in a year increased by 3 billion rubles
In 2021, the Russian Science Foundation (RSF) funded projects totaling 24.3 billion rubles, compared to 21 billion rubles the previous year. These figures were released in April 2022. More details here.
2016: Russia ranks 4th in the world by volume of state support for science
According to a study by the HSE University Institute of Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge (ISIEK), published in the “Science, Technology, Innovation” series newsletter in August 2016, Russia ranks 4th in the world in terms of state funding allocated for the development of civilian science. The country has significantly improved its performance in this area since 2000.
The main leaders in allocations for civilian science, according to 2014 data, are the USA ($66.4 billion), Japan ($33.3 billion), and Germany ($31.4 billion). They surpass Russia by factors of 3.0, 1.5, and 1.4, respectively.
Countries leading in budgetary allocations for civilian research and development. Source: ISIEK HSE newsletter “Science, Technology, Innovation”
Over the period under review, Russia improved its standing and ranks 4th among countries with available data by the absolute volume of these allocations ($22.4 billion at purchasing power parity). In 2005, it ranked 10th, trailing the G7 nations as well as Spain and the Republic of Korea; in 2000, it held the 12th position.
History
2025: Russian President Vladimir Putin Orders the Creation of a Database for High-Tech Material Properties
On April 18, 2025, the President of Russia, [[Vladimir_Putin|Vladimir Putin], tasked the government with exploring the creation of a unified digital database of high-tech material properties. This initiative aims to strengthen the country's scientific and technological potential and improve research efficiency. For more details, see here.
2024
Country rankings by scientific output, with Russia in 33rd place
Russia took 33rd place in the global ranking of countries by scientific output, while the US leads the list. This was reported in an overview of the AD Scientific Index (Alper-Doger Scientific Index), which TAdviser reviewed in late November 2024.
The AD Scientific Index ranks academic institutions and researchers based on their scientific activity. Unlike other rankings, the AD Scientific Index not only considers citation metrics but also evaluates each author's scientific work individually. This ensures coverage of a wide range of disciplines and research fields.
The US tops the list, with 3,201 scientific institutions and a total of 447,749 scientists. Among the organizations and their employees making the most significant contributions to scientific activity are the University of Michigan, Harvard University, the National Institutes of Health, and the corporation Google. Second in the AD Scientific Index ranking is the UK with 322 scientific structures and 96,610 scientists. Third place goes to Australia — 156 organizations and 48,475 researchers.
In Russia, according to the AD Scientific Index, there were 488 scientific institutions by the end of 2024, with a total number of scientists estimated at 46,272. Notable contributions are made by the Novosibirsk State University, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, as well as PJSC Gazprom.
If we look at the rankings among CIS countries, Russia holds the top position. In the global list, Kazakhstan is in 73rd place and Belarus is 87th. In total, 219 countries are included in the ranking, with Sao Tome and Principe at the bottom.[16]
Construction of the INTS on Russky Island will cost 24 billion rubles
President of Russia Vladimir Putin ordered the construction of an innovative science and technology center (INTS) on Russky Island in Primorsky Krai. According to the head of the Ministry for Development of the Russian Far East and the Arctic, Alexey Chekunkov, the project will be implemented under a Far Eastern concession, with total construction costs amounting to ₽24 billion. The minister shared this information in September 2024. More details here.
Putin approved the new composition of the Presidential Council for Science and Education
On August 19, 2024, the President of Russia Vladimir Putin signed a decree approving the membership and presidium of the Presidential Council for Science and Education under the head of state. The council includes government ministers, rectors of Russian universities, representatives of the executive branch, and Russian business leaders. More details here.
Russian President Vladimir Putin tasked with the creation of federal projects for the development of key high-tech technologies
On July 30, 2024, the President of Russia Vladimir Putin instructed the Russian Government to form separate federal projects for the development of key high-tech technologies. Mikhail Mishustin, Chairman of the Russian Government, was appointed responsible for implementing this initiative. The deadline for execution is set for September 1, 2024.
As reported, within the framework of national programs aimed at ensuring technological leadership, it is necessary to provide for the formation of separate federal projects for the development of key high-tech technologies and for advanced training and retraining of qualified personnel in corresponding fields. These national projects must also include target indicators characterizing the production of specific goods or the provision of services using key high-tech technologies.
In accordance with Putin's instructions, the government must ensure that the national project "Youth and Children" includes measures aimed at improving the quality of teaching mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology in general education and vocational educational organizations. It is also necessary to coordinate national projects regarding personnel and scientific support for their implementation with the Commission for Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation.
The issue of including measures in the project to create a network of modern campuses for higher educational institutions, aimed at providing housing for scientific and academic staff of these organizations, including service apartments, dormitory rooms, and rented housing, will be considered. Starting from 2025, planning of federal budget expenditures for conducting civilian research and development activities will be carried out for a period of not less than six years.[17]
35 research labs established in world-class campuses in Russia
35 research laboratories have been established in world-class campuses across Russia. This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko on May 22, 2024.
According to him, these labs operate within three campuses — located in Moscow, Ufa, and Yekaterinburg. Specifically, the following institutions are involved:
- 22 labs at Moscow State Technical University named after N.E. Bauman (Bauman MSTU): training next-generation engineers for the aerospace industry; conducting research in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, and land transport and technological systems;
- 12 labs in the inter-university campus of the World-Class Eurasian Science and Education Center in Ufa: covering medical genetics, molecular bioengineering, multifunctional materials, nanoelectronics, robotics, and urban studies;
- one lab at Ural Federal University named after B.N. Yeltsin: focused on developing and physically validating digital prototypes of high-tech products using supercomputing resources.
A network of modern campuses is being developed under the national project "Science and Universities." The first selection round included 8 projects: Nizhny Novgorod, Ufa, Yekaterinburg, Kaliningrad, Chelyabinsk, Moscow, Novosibirsk, and Tomsk. Nine additional projects were selected in the second round: Samara, Sirius federal territory, Perm', Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Ivanovo, Arkhangelsk, Tyumen', Khabarovsk, and Veliky Novgorod. A third selection is planned for August 2024, with eight projects expected to be chosen from around 50 applications.
As Dmitry Chernyshenko noted, by May 2024, 17 such student towns had been designed or were under construction as part of the "Science and Universities" national project. These will include approximately 400 laboratories, 149 infrastructure facilities, over 300 new educational programs, and accommodation for up to 60,000 students.[18]
2023
The number of scientists employed in research and development in Russia reached 670,600
According to 2023 results, the number of employees engaged in research and development in Russia totaled 670,600. This is a 0.1% increase compared to 2022, when the figure was estimated at 669,900. These data are presented in an overview dated February 5, 2025, prepared by the HSE University Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia and Rosstat.
It is noted that in 2023, there were 338,900 researchers in the Russian Federation — accounting for about half (50.5%) of all scientific personnel. An additional 62,155 people were technicians (9.3%), 155,084 workers made up support staff (23.1%), and 114,475 people were other employees (17.1%). Overall, this ratio has remained virtually unchanged since 2010.
Russian science is characterized by a high proportion of young scientists (up to and including age 39) — 43.6% as of the end of 2023. About a third belong to the 40–59 age group, while slightly less than a quarter consist of older individuals (60 years and above). In 2023, 15,100 people (1.9% of all graduates) were hired by scientific organizations after graduating from Russian universities, of whom 8,900 became researchers.
Total gross domestic expenditure on research and development in Russia in 2023 reached 1.65 trillion rubles. Of this amount, 53.8% came from the federal budget, 30.6% from the business sector, and 11.4% from public funds. The report also states that of the 108,200 Russian publications in scientific journals indexed in Scopus, approximately one in five (20,800) in 2023 was published in international co-authorship. Most joint publications were prepared with specialists from China (3,900), the United States (3,600), and Germany (2,900).[19]
Russia moves academic degree awarding process online
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a decree on improving the scientific qualification system. Specifically, according to the document published in late October 2023, the process of awarding academic degrees in Russia has been fully digitized. More details here.
"Mendeleev Cards" Are Now Being Issued to Young Scientists and Students in Russia
In late June 2023, so-called "Mendeleev Cards" began being issued to young scientists. This loyalty program was developed to support researchers, graduate students, university students, and high school students who have won subject Olympiads. The nationwide project is being implemented as part of the Decade of Science and Technology. More details here.
EAEU countries mutually recognized documents on academic degrees
In June 2023, the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) signed an agreement on mutual recognition of documents on academic degrees in the member states of the EAEU. This was announced by the Prime Minister of Russia, [[Мишустин Михаил Владимирович|Mikhail Mishustin], during a press briefing following the meeting of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council. More details can be found here.
Russia launches national database of scientific publications
In late May 2023, Sechenov University opened free access to RusMed, a new database of medical journals and articles. According to the project's authors, it is essentially a Russian counterpart to the major international PubMed Central (PMC) database. More details here.
2022
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education has calculated the outflow of scientists over the year
According to results for 2022, approximately 9% of research organizations and 2% of universities in Russia reported the dismissal of Russian specialists due to emigration. These figures were released by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (Minobrnauki) at the end of January 2024.
Based on estimates from the National Research University Higher School of Economics' Institute for Statistical Studies and Knowledge Economics, 490 Russian scientists and university staff traveled abroad in 2022 for work, study, or internships. Of these, 85% conducted joint research overseas. In total, 313 researchers and 177 academic staff members went abroad. Additionally, 128 postgraduate students utilized opportunities for academic mobility. Approximately 0.1–0.3% of individuals in each specified category traveled abroad for internships or professional activities.
In Russia, academic mobility programs are noted to stimulate the creation of vacancies for young scientists, while their work within new teams contributes to the development of new scientific fields and interdisciplinary research. However, the study revealed that 83% of all researchers and teachers across Russia, and 63% of lecturers under the age of 39, had never changed jobs between 2010 and 2019. Only 11% of young lecturers have experience relocating to another city for a new position. According to monitoring data on the labor market for highly qualified scientific personnel, the share of participants in academic mobility programs is even lower—around 3%.
Regarding relocation to Moscow and St. Petersburg with a salary increase, 63% of lecturers and 66% of researchers are willing to move; willingness drops to 51% and 56%, respectively, for other major cities. Moreover, 61% of young scientists are ready to participate in projects deemed interesting and significant for both Russian and global science.[20]
Chernyshenko: Russia is creating a unified science management information system
On November 22, 2022, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko announced the creation of a unified information system in Russia. According to the deputy prime minister, the first services under this project will be launched by the end of 2022. More details here.
Appeal to Initiate Criminal Proceedings for Requiring Publications in Foreign Journals as a Condition for Scientific Project Funding
In March 2022, the Public Committee for Human Rights appealed to the President of Russia and the Director of the FSB, requesting the initiation of criminal proceedings against an "undefined group of individuals" who imposed the condition that scientific research funding be contingent upon publications in journals indexed by Scopus and Web of Science.
Since 2012, it has indeed become impossible to secure research funding without such publications. The cost of publishing a scientific article in these journal pools ranged from 200,000 rubles upwards.
However, the mere fact of payment was not the critical issue. Scopus and Web of Science journals established a significant criterion for scientific articles: to be published, the results had to include criticism of Russia's current political system or highlight its inadequacies. No amount of money could overturn this rule. For ten years, Russian scientists were compelled to produce work critical of their own country so that universities could receive state funding. Meanwhile, impossible conditions were set for Russian journals to be included in these databases.
Without these designated publications, career advancement within universities was also blocked—obtaining a new academic qualification without publications in Anglo-Saxon databases is now legally impossible under Russian law. Interestingly, French, German, Italian, Chinese, and many other countries have categorically rejected such a system, recognizing its potential risks. It is also notable that the open appeal does not name the actors who decided to implement this system.
2021
HSE: The Number of Russian Scholars Leaving for Abroad Halved Over Two Years
The number of Russian scholars leaving for abroad halved over two years, according to data from National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE) released in early February 2022.
As Kommersant reports citing this study, if 540 scientists left Russia for work or internships in 2019, their number decreased to 277 by 2021. Most commonly, research staff departed abroad in 2021, accounting for 72%. The majority were engaged in natural sciences (73%), engineering and technology (14%), and agricultural sciences (6%).
They mainly traveled for up to one year, with trips longer than two years being rare according to the study's authors. Among the top five countries where Russian scientists most frequently went over the past three years are Germany, France, the USA, China, and Vietnam.
In contrast, more instructors without academic degrees (41%) arrive in Russia for work, study, or internships. Seventy percent of them come for up to one year. Most hold citizenship from China, Germany, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Ukraine.
According to researchers, among temporarily departing Russian postgraduates, the proportion under 30 has increased. The most mobile postgraduates study at universities located in large cities of Russia (90%). Over the past three years, those from Saint Petersburg (46%), Moscow (11%), and Tomsk region (9.5%) traveled abroad most often.
The study covers all ranks of scientific personnel—from postgraduates to teaching staff at research institutes and universities. It excludes scientists who emigrated from Russia and no longer collaborate with domestic research institutions or universities.[21]
The number of researchers in Russia has decreased by 17.5% over the past 15 years
On May 13, 2021, the president of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), Sergey Serdyukov, reported that the number of researchers in Russia had decreased by 17.5% over the past 15 years, while there was significant growth in almost all other countries — ranging from 30% to 130%.
According to Serdyukov, as of May 2021, Russia ranked sixth in the world by the number of researchers in full-time equivalent terms. Ahead of Russia on the list were Germany and South Korea, whereas several years ago, Russia held the fourth position. In terms of relative researcher density per 10 thousand employed population, Russia occupies the 27th place, and this position is deteriorating, he stated during parliamentary hearings titled "The Scientific Human Potential of the Country: Current State, Development Trends, and Growth Instruments."
The academician added that the issue of the country's scientific human potential has been causing public concern in recent years due to ongoing negative trends in both the quantitative and qualitative composition of researchers, as evidenced by statistical data.
Earlier in 2021, Nikolai Dolgushkin, the chief scientific secretary of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), reported that since 2012, the number of scientists and highly qualified specialists leaving Russia has increased fivefold. According to him, only over the past three years, the number of scientists in the country decreased by 30 thousand, resulting in Russia's inability to meet the targets set by the national project "Science," which aimed to increase the number of specialists. Among the risks for Russian scientists, he specifically mentioned insufficient funding.
Nikolai Dolgushkin noted that Russia remains the only developed country where the number of scientists has been declining for decades consecutively. In 1990, Russia ranked first in the world by the number of scientists, but since then their numbers dropped from 992 thousand to 348 thousand, i.e., by 65%, clarified the academician.[22]
2020
Expenditure by Russian scientists on publishing in foreign academic journals increased by 50%, reaching $10 million
Expenditure by Russian scientists on publishing in foreign academic journals rose by 50% in 2020 compared to 2019, reaching approximately $10 million. These figures were shared by Alexei Khokhlov, Vice-President of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), on his Facebook page on February 2, 2022.
According to him, in 2020, the number of articles in leading "quarterly" journals included in the Web of Science Core Collection database, which featured primary contributions by Russian scientists, amounted to approximately 27 thousand, a 19% increase from the previous year. Of these, only 20 thousand were published in subscription-based journals, while 7 thousand (26%) appeared in foreign Open Access journals.
It is noted that 57% of Russia's open-access articles in 2020 were published by MDPI. This publisher is based in Switzerland, controlled by Chinese business interests, and has a controversial reputation, according to the RAS Vice-President.
He pointed out that articles in open-access journals are funded by authors from their own grants or by their employing organizations. Ultimately, these are budgetary funds: the $10 million spent by Russian scientists on paid publications in foreign academic outlets exceeds more than five times the state budget allocation for all RAS journals, which account for the lion's share of "quarterly" Russian journals included in the Web of Science Core Collection, Khokhlov emphasized.
He stated that this is precisely why the Russian Academy of Sciences has been advocating for several years for the creation of a Russian Academic Publishing House, whose primary goal would be to publish top-tier Russian journals in an Open Access format (including both Russian-language and English-language editions). In this scenario, budgetary funds would go toward developing a system of high-quality Russian journals rather than paying fees to foreign publishing companies, he added.[23]
Moscow ranks 10th among world cities in the number of Nobel and Fields Prize laureates
The Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEK) at the National Research University Higher School of Economics released a rating of the innovative attractiveness of world cities (HSE Global Cities Innovation Index) covering 36 global centers in February 2021. One of the research areas focuses on scientists and laureates of the Nobel and Fields prizes. According to the report, as of 2020, Moscow ranked 10th among world cities in the number of Nobel and Fields Prize laureates. More details here.
63 scientific articles in the exact sciences per 100 thousand population
2019: The number of young scientists in Russia fell by 20% over nine years to 58,500
The number of young scientists in Russia dropped by 20% over nine years—from 71,100 in 2010 to 58,500 in 2019. These figures are cited in the Strategy for Youth Policy in the Russian Federation until 2030, published on the website of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
As “Interfax” reports citing this document, its authors view the decline in young scientists as a precursor to shrinking the country’s scientific potential, which could lead to lagging behind in high-tech sectors of the economy.
The authors also highlight a reduction in youth representation within society and note that among those completing secondary education, there remains a trend of declining enrollment in schools where students choose advanced mathematics or technical and natural science subjects for their unified state exams.
| | This trend is likely to undermine the scientific potential and may result in falling behind in high-tech industries, as well as slowing down progress toward "digital maturity" across various fields—the strategy draft states, excerpts of which were provided by news agencies. | |
It was also noted that young scientists demonstrate a high level of professional qualification. According to the strategy's authors, on average every seventh one holds an academic degree.
In 2023, Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the [[Security Council of the Russian Federation|Security Council of Russia], stated that the number of research staff had decreased by approximately 25% over the past two decades.
| | A serious obstacle to achieving technological independence is the shortage of qualified scientific, engineering and skilled labor personnel. The total number of employees engaged in research and development in Russia has declined by a quarter over the last 20 years—he said at the end of October 2023.[24] | |
2012: State Program for Science Development until 2020 Approved
Main article: State Program of the Russian Federation "Development of Science and Technology" for the Period up to 2020
1948: Academician Trofim Lysenko Declares Genetics a Pseudoscience
1904
1903
1871: Miklukho-Maklay begins his first legendary expedition to New Guinea
Main article: Miklukho-Maklay Nikolai Nikolaevich
1755: "Theatrum Machinarum" by the scientist and mechanic Andrey Nartov
Andrey Konstantinovich Nartov was a Russian scientist, mechanic, and sculptor, a collegiate assessor, and member of the Academy of Sciences (1723–1756), inventor of the lathe with a mechanized slide rest and a set of interchangeable gears. This invention was later forgotten, and the lathe with a mechanical slide rest and gear train was reinvented around 1800 by Henry Maudslay, a British engineer.
He was born in Moscow in 1693. His exact origins are unknown. It is assumed that he came from the posad population (urban commoners).
From 1709, Nartov worked as a turner at the Moscow School of Mathematics and Navigation Sciences. In 1712, Peter I summoned him to St. Petersburg, where he was appointed as a highly qualified turner in the royal "turnery." During this period, Nartov developed and built several mechanized machines for copying bas-reliefs and works of applied arts. Around 1718, the tsar sent Nartov on a trip to Prussia, Holland, France, and England to refine his skills in turning and "acquire knowledge in mechanics and mathematics." Upon returning from abroad, he was entrusted with overseeing the turnery, which he soon expanded and enriched with new machines brought or ordered from abroad. Nartov had close relations with Peter the Great: the turnery was located near the tsar's chambers and often served as his private cabinet.
Andrey Konstantinovich Nartov died on April 16 (27), 1756, in St. Petersburg. After his death, significant debts remained due to his personal investments in scientific and technical experiments.
In 1755, Nartov completed work on the manuscript "Theatrum Machinarum, or Clear View of Machines," an encyclopedia of machine tool building, medallion making, and turning art from the first half of the 18th century. This book holds great significance for the history of science and technology; Nartov intended to "make it public," i.e., publish it and make it accessible to all turners, mechanics, and designers.
"Theatrum Machinarum" was completed by Nartov shortly before his death. After the author's death, his son gathered all the manuscript sheets, bound them, and prepared the work for presentation to Catherine II. The manuscript was then placed in the court library, where it lay forgotten for nearly two centuries: it was discovered in 1952 at the State Public Library named after M. I. Saltykov-Shchedrin and became a subject of scholarly study.
See also
Notes
- ↑ Ministry of Science and Higher Education to allocate over RUB 8 billion for the development of domestic civilian instruments
- ↑ Federal budget allocations for civil science: 2025 results
- ↑ RAS President Gennady Krashnikov Presented Key Scientific Achievements for 2025
- ↑ The Budget Is Not Keeping Up with Science
- ↑ Minobrnauki requests increased funding for "megascience" projects
- ↑ Falkov: Spending on Fundamental Scientific Research in RF Will Grow in 2025
- ↑ Civilian Science Spending to Grow by Over 15% in 2025
- ↑ Number of researchers with academic degrees declined by 20% since 2015
- ↑ Russia retained fifth place in global science funding from budget sources
- ↑ Government expands and extends federal program for the development of synchrotron and neutron research
- ↑ Federal budget expenditures on civilian science in 2023
- ↑ About 200 scientific organizations will receive grants for upgrading their instrument bases in 2023
- ↑ Adaptation of State Support for Science and Technology to New Conditions
- ↑ University science taps into the state budget
- ↑ The Cost of Russian Science: Federal Budget Expenditures
- ↑ World Country Rankings 2025
- ↑ List of assignments following the meeting of the Council for Science and Education and the meeting with Mega-Grants recipients and leading scientists
- ↑ Dmitry Chernyshenko and Valery Falkov spoke about the opening of new labs in world-class campuses
- ↑ Science Indicators: 2025
- ↑ The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation stated that the outflow of scientific personnel in 2022 was not mass
- ↑ The Russian Field of Scientific Experiments
- ↑ The number of researchers in Russia decreased by 17.5% while growing up to 130% in other countries
- ↑ Alexei Khokhlov on Facebook
- ↑ The number of young scientists in Russia fell by 20% between 2010 and 2019