More elite AI researchers now work in China than in the US, study finds

What changed

China now hosts more elite AI researchers than the US, with 41% versus 34% in 2025.

Why you should care

China now hosts more elite AI researchers than the US, signaling a major geopolitical and scientific shift.

Your move

Watch. Shift in elite talent distribution may alter global research leadership and collaboration dynamics.

Evidence

ConfirmedThe Next Web ↗

What to watch next

Future studies tracking elite AI researcher distribution between China and the US over the next 12 months.

Event

research

Event date

Sep 28, 2026

Relevant to

General AI readers