The international affiliate is a cross-border mark of research excellence and best practice and was launched by MRS last year.

Signatories include the global teams of businesses such as GSK, Mintel and Unilever and international research agency Behaviorally.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) and Middle Eastern food firm Savola Foods have also become international affiliates.

To be eligible, organisations must employ at least one MRS certified member and support their local research association to ensure standards in their national market are upheld and promoted.

Jane Frost, chief executive of MRS, said: “One of the bright spots of this extraordinary year has been how scientific, insight and research communities have come together to find solutions to global challenges.

“It has been a true testament to the power of international partnerships and what we can achieve when we cooperate.”