To explore public attitudes to R&D, CaSE has conducted in-depth research studies using quantitative and qualitative methods. All our polling has been carried out by Public First using nationally-representative samples from across the UK. Our qualitative research includes focus groups, run by Public First, and a public dialogue project exploring society’s stake in R&D, delivered by the National Centre for Social Research.
What do the UK public think and feel about R&D?
Summaries of our results
Our briefing series, drawn from across all our public opinion research, summarises attitudes to different R&D actors and topics, along with significant attitudinal and regional differences.
CaSE Public Attitudes to R&D and the General Election 2024
CaSE is carrying out three public opinion polls over the course of 2024 to explore attitudes to R&D and politically salient issues, and support the R&D sector’s advocacy around the election.
Results
Our first poll explored economic growth; people’s attitudes to R&D-related actions from their MPs; and trust
Methodology
Explore the methodology and approach to our 2024 public attitudes survey in detail
Download the data
Download the results from our nationally-representative polls or individual level data
CaSE Public Attitudes to R&D 2022-23
CaSE’s landmark study of public attitudes comprised five nationally-representative surveys of the UK public between May 2022 and October 2023, polling more than 20,000 people, and 14 focus groups held across the UK in May and December 2022. This study will form the baseline for further tracker polls.
Results
We found that R&D is seen as important but not urgent, and place and purpose are strong connection points
Methodology
Explore the methodology and approach to our 2022-23 public attitudes survey in detail
Download the data
Download the results from the five nationally-representative polls or the individual level data
People's Vision for R&D
In 2024, CaSE is carrying out a public dialogue exercise to strengthen our public attitudes research, which will explore society’s stake in UK research, framed around the ways in which different public audiences can be involved or engaged in R&D.
Explore all CaSE's Public Opinion work