Estonia is an attractive destination for research and collaboration. Here, you will find essential information and the latest news on Estonian research.
Research in Estonia is a government initiative operating under the Estonian Research Council.
Small in size, great for research.
We punch way above our weight when it comes to scientific citations, as well as received funding from European Union research and innovation programmes.
In Estonia, things move quickly. Make new connections and meet the decision-makers in no time. With less workplace hierarchy and competition, this is the place to fulfil your potential.
In a country where 100% of state services are online, we are not fond of paperwork. You will be surprised by the ease of grant application submissions and general low level of bureaucracy.
Estonians believe in the positive effects of science and show strong respect for academic institutions. Scientists are highly trusted in our society.
The country quietly captivates you with clean air, low population density and abundant nature. Thanks to the very low crime rate, a sauna is the only place you’ll ever sweat in.
Short commute distances leave more time for friends and family. Children get to benefit from the top-ranked education system in Europe.
Estonian is one of the world’s smallest official national languages. While we are really proud of the fact, English is widely spoken and used on all official websites.
„Getting-it-done“ research country
Administrative processes are efficient thanks to the country’s digital infrastructure. With 99% of public services online, researchers encounter minimal bureaucracy – from grant applications to everyday practical procedures.
Estonia’s journey towards digital education began already in the 1990s, when internet access and computers were brought to every school. This early investment laid the foundation for a digitally capable education system. Through strategic investments and a strong digital ecosystem, Estonia supports students and educators alike – making digital learning accessible, resilient, and future-ready.
i-voting is a unique solution that simply and conveniently helps to engage people in the governance process. In 2005, Estonia became the first country in the world to hold nation-wide elections using this method, and in 2007, it made headlines as the first country to use i-voting in parliamentary elections.
Science-minded society
The most cited fields (compared to the global average of the field) according to the Web of Science.
The Estonian Research Council (Eesti Teadusagentuur, ETAG) is the main body responsible for the funding of R&D and supports researchers’ mobility and external cooperation, offering various segments of grants.
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FAQ
Research in Estonia is a platform that introduces Estonia as a destination for research and collaboration. It brings together research news, system overviews, and practical information to help users explore opportunities in Estonian science.
Estonia’s strengths include a strong digital society, close collaboration between academia and industry, and a flexible, efficient research system. With little red tape, high public trust in scientists and research institutions, and a second-place ranking in the world for academic freedom, Estonia offers an excellent environment for research. Although small, Estonia provides a dynamic and internationally connected research landscape.
Research in Estonia covers all major fields, from natural and social sciences to humanities. At the same time, particular focus is placed on areas such as ICT, health technologies, and the sustainable use of resources.
Research is carried out by universities, research institutions, and companies. The system is guided by national strategies and supported through competitive funding from public, private, and international sources. National competition-based research funding is organised mainly by the Estonian Research Council, but also by sectoral ministries. Some relevant R&D funding schemes are provided also by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, managed by the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (Ettevõtluse ja Innovatsiooni Sihtasutus, EISA).
You can start by exploring research institutions, funding opportunities, and current research projects. A comprehensive overview of the Estonian research landscape is available on the EURAXESS Estonia website. For more detailed searches among researchers, research groups, and projects, the Estonian Research Information System (ETIS) is a useful tool for finding and contacting potential collaborators. For personalised assistance, you are welcome to contact us at euraxess@etag.ee.
- Businesses can collaborate with Estonian researchers through joint projects, partnerships, and innovation networks. For more detailed searches among researchers, research groups, and projects, the Estonian Research Information System (ETIS) is a useful tool for finding and contacting potential collaborators.
- Platforms such as the ADAPTER network help companies connect with universities and research institutions.
- All types of organisations, including enterprises, are welcome to advertise their research vacancies free of charge on the EURAXESS Jobs portal. Positions announced in Estonia will also be automatically included on the Work in Estonia Jobs portal.