Scientific research and development

NACE v2.1 Code: N72

About scientific research and development

NACE code 72, 'Scientific research and development', encompasses a vital and dynamic industry that plays a crucial role in driving innovation, technological advancement, and economic progress. This sector is responsible for conducting fundamental and applied research across a wide range of scientific disciplines, from natural sciences to engineering, medicine, and social sciences. The knowledge and discoveries generated by this industry are essential for the development of new products, services, and solutions that address the evolving needs of businesses, governments, and society as a whole.

Production process

The core activities within the scientific research and development industry involve systematic investigation, experimentation, and analysis. Researchers utilize a variety of techniques, including laboratory experiments, field studies, data collection and analysis, and the development of theoretical models and simulations. These methods are employed to expand the boundaries of human knowledge, solve complex problems, and create innovative technologies and applications.

Production inputs

The scientific research and development industry relies on a diverse range of inputs, including highly skilled and specialized personnel, such as scientists, engineers, and technicians. Additionally, the industry requires access to state-of-the-art research facilities, specialized equipment, and advanced computing and data analysis tools. Funding, whether from public sources, private investments, or collaborative partnerships, is also a critical input that enables the industry to undertake ambitious research projects and bring new discoveries to fruition.

Production outputs

The outputs of the scientific research and development industry are far-reaching and have a profound impact on various other economic activities. The knowledge, technologies, and innovations generated by this sector are often adopted and utilized by a wide range of other NACE codes, such as 21 Manufacturing of basic pharmaceutical products and pharmaceutical preparations, 26 Manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products, and 72 Computer programming, consultancy and related activities. The industry's contributions are essential for driving progress, improving productivity, and enhancing the competitiveness of the broader economy.

Revisions to 72

Classification codes are adjusted frequently. The code may have been revised or replaced between system versions. The table below shows the history (newest to oldest) of the code 72. The most recent 1 version of this code (72) is in the NACE v2.1 system (this version):

This page shows the most recent version of code 72.

Family tree for scientific research and development

    graph LR
    A["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N'>N: PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES</a>"]
A --> B["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/72'>72: Scientific research and development</a>"]

    A --> C["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/69'>69: Legal and accounting activities</a>"]
A --> D["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/70'>70: Activities of head offices and management consultancy</a>"]
A --> E["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/71'>71: Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing and analysis</a>"]
A --> F["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/73'>73: Activities of advertising, market research and public relations</a>"]
A --> G["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/74'>74: Other professional, scientific and technical activities</a>"]
A --> H["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/75'>75: Veterinary activities</a>"]

    B --> I["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/72/1'>72.1: Research and experimental development on natural sciences and engineering</a>"]
B --> J["<a href='/classifications/nace/v2-1/N/72/2'>72.2: Research and experimental development on social sciences and humanities</a>"]


    %% Color coordination by level

    classDef level1 color:#000,fill:#a8f9ff,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px
    classDef level2 color:#000,fill:#e0a458,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level3 color:#000,fill:#419d78,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level4 color:#000,fill:#c04abc,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level5 color:#000,fill:#f1c40f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level6 color:#000,fill:#f1c40f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef highlight color:#000,fill:#fff,stroke:#000,stroke-width:5px



  %% Apply classes
  class A level1
class B level2
class C level2
class D level2
class E level2
class F level2
class G level2
class H level2
class I level3
class J level3

  class B highlight

  %% class A level1
  %% class B,C level2
  %% class D,E,F,G,H,I level2
  %% class J,K,L,M,N,O,P level3
  %% class B highlight