Shaping the Researcher of the Future: Confidence, collaboration and AI

A transforming era for science

From breakthroughs in biotechnology and quantum systems to the integration of AI into every stage of the research arc, science is progressing faster than ever before.

But with opportunity comes challenge. Researchers face increasing expectations — to publish, to collaborate globally, to demonstrate tangible societal impact, and to uphold the integrity of research in an age of rapid change.

Our latest global study, Researcher of the Future — A Confidence in Research study, explores how researchers are adapting to this evolving environment and what support they need to thrive.

Conducted in partnership with more than 3,200 active researchers from 113 countries, the survey reveals how technology, collaboration, and the drive for real-world impact are redefining what it means to be a researcher today.

AI: A creative partner in discovery

• Artificial intelligence has emerged as one of the defining catalysts of modern research

• Over half of researchers surveyed (58%) are now using AI tools for their work — up from just 37% in early 2024

• In China, adoption is at nearly 70%

Most researchers view AI positively:

• 58% say it saves them time today

• Nearly 70% expect it will save even more in the next few years

• 61% believe AI will be the creative force driving new knowledge generation

Yet there is caution too. Almost half (45%) feel undertrained in AI use, and only one-third (32%) say their institutions have strong AI governance. Many want clearer guidance and ethics frameworks to ensure AI enhances — not undermines — research integrity.

As one respondent in Indonesia put it:

For institutions, funders and publishers, this underscores a call to action: to provide training, governance and responsible innovation that empower researchers to use AI effectively, ethically and confidently.

Under pressure, upholding integrity

The pressures researchers face are intense — and rising.

• Just 45% say they have enough time for research

• 33% expect funding in their field to increase in the coming years

• 68% report that the pressure to publish has grown compared with two years ago

Despite this, researchers’ commitment to quality and integrity remains steadfast.

• 74% say peer-reviewed research is trustworthy.

• 85% agree that corrections and retractions ensure research integrity.

• 76% believe publishers play a critical role in maintaining quality.

Researchers also place high value on transparency and robust methodology: 78% rate the design of research methods as the most important factor in having confidence in others’ work — above journal prestige or author reputation.

In an era of information overload and AI-generated content, this commitment to rigor and trust is more vital than ever.

Collaboration and mobility in flux

Collaboration remains a cornerstone of scientific progress.

• Nearly two-thirds of researchers (63%) report more collaboration in their field than before — especially across disciplines (68%) and national borders (53%).

• However, global mobility is shifting. While 30% report more international applicants joining their teams, fewer researchers overall are considering moving abroad for work (29%, down five points from 2022).

• Those most likely to move cite better work–life balance (51%), more funding (49%), and greater research freedom (49%) as their top motivations.

Regional patterns reveal deeper nuances.

• Researchers in Asia Pacific are collaborating more and adopting AI faster but are less likely to relocate.

• Those in North America are most likely to consider moving abroad.

• In the Middle East and Africa, collaboration and mission-driven research are especially strong.

Technology — from digital platforms to AI-assisted communication — is helping sustain collaboration even as mobility becomes more complex.

A Growing Drive to Demonstrate Impact

Researchers are increasingly motivated to make their work meaningful beyond academia.

Two-thirds (67%) agree there is now greater emphasis on mission-oriented research, tackling grand challenges such as climate change and public health. Half (50%) believe research should always have a real-world benefit, up seven points since 2022.

And they are taking action:

66% of researchers report engaging in outreach activities, from publishing articles in magazines (64%) and giving public lectures (58%) to mentoring students and advising policymakers. In the Middle East and Africa, public engagement reaches 78%.

Still, many researchers say they need more institutional support to sustain these efforts, including training, incentives, and formal recognition in career progression.

What next for the Researcher of the Future?

Taken together, these findings portray a research community that is resilient, innovative and deeply mission-driven, yet in need of renewed support systems. To help the Researcher of the Future flourish, the report highlights several priorities:

• AI training and governance: Equip researchers with the skills and ethical frameworks to use AI responsibly.

• Fair funding and evaluation: Balance quality, integrity and impact in research assessment.

• Collaboration and mobility: Strengthen global partnerships while reducing administrative barriers.

• Public engagement: Recognize and reward outreach and science communication.

• Integrity and transparency: Maintain trust through robust peer review and open research practices.

Supporting the Research Community Together

As Elsevier continues to evolve as an information analytics and technology partner, we remain guided by our core mission: to advance human progress through knowledge. By working hand-in-hand with the global research community — listening, learning and co-developing solutions — we aim to build confidence in research and empower the next generation of scientists.

Our responsible AI principles commit us to transparency, fairness, accountability and human oversight — values that mirror the scientific method itself.

We invite you to explore the full report and join the conversation on shaping a confident, connected and AI-empowered research future.