Aim of this survey

The Government Research and Development Survey (GovERD) is an annual census of government departments in the United Kingdom (UK), to collect expenditure and employment figures relating to Research and Development (R&D) conducted within its establishments.

The survey also collects information on government funding of R&D and Science, Engineering and Technology (SET).

All government departments have a responsibility to complete the survey to assist Government’s measurement of achieving its target for UK R&D expenditure of 2.4% of GDP by 2027.

Your co-operation in completing the questionnaire would be appreciated.

What you need to know

To complete the survey, you will need the following information:

  • expenditure on in-house R&D (this is R&D carried out within this department either for the department itself or for a third party)

  • funding received for R&D

  • purchase of R&D carried out outside this department

  • the number of employees working on in-house R&D

  • a breakdown of employment into scientists & engineers, technicians and other supporting staff

All information you provide is strictly confidential.

Survey information

Selection criteria: UK government departments

Population: all UK government departments

Sample: approximately 140

Frequency: annually

Dispatch date: 2 August

Return-by date: 24 September

Dispatch and return-by dates are a guide. They are subject to change due to national holidays and weekends.

Why you were selected

You have been selected as a government department that performs R&D within the UK. Your response ensures we represent the government’s investment in R&D.
How to complete this survey

Your email explains how to submit your data using our online collection system.

Complete this survey online

If you need help

If your question is not answered above, you may be able to find the answer in the About ONS business surveys section.

You can call us on 0300 1234 931. Please enter the three-digit survey ID 500.

From outside the UK: +441633 810495.

Er mwyn gwneud cais am ffurflen Gymraeg (to speak to someone in Welsh): 0300 1234 921.