Papua New Guinea continues to face challenges in developing a strong culture of research and innovation despite its rich cultural diversity and natural resources. Compared to regional neighbour’s, PNG has limited research publications, slow adoption of new technologies, and minimal investment in innovation-driven industries. This research investigates barriers influencing research and innovation in PNG based on a survey response of 26 participants. The survey results indicates that 80% of the respondents considered research and innovation to be ‘Very Important for the development in PNG, yet only a small proportion of 46% of the respondents have participated in any research related activities. The most frequently cited barriers rated by the respondents were lack of funding, poor research facilities, cultural attitudes and limited training and skills. Other factors such as access to technology varied between the age group and employment status. And priority areas for investment identified by the respondents were, agriculture which as the highest rate, education, environment and climate action, health and technology. From these findings, there is a clear need for urgent improvement in funding, infrastructure, skills development and more cultural awareness needs to take place within the country to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s research and innovation abilities.