Abstract <p>The article describes the main stages of development of agricultural science in Russia, starting with the works of M.V. Lomonosov and up to the present day. During this period, isolated fundamental studies of prominent scientists, dealing with soil formation, nutrition, and photosynthesis of plants, gave rise to a well-organized system of research institutions, which embraced 255 research institutions and 51 centers for artificial selection in plant (crop)-farming and livestock selective breeding as well as biotechnological and technological centers. More than 14 500 researchers have worked in research institutions, half of whom were doctors and candidates of science. Currently, the Division of Agricultural Sciences comprises 287 members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, including 161 academicians and 126 corresponding members. Under their scientific and methodological guidance and direct participation, fundamental and exploratory research is carried out based on scientific and educational institutions subordinate to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia. The efforts of the scientists make it possible to annually create approximately 300 new competitive cultivars and hybrids of agricultural crops that compare favorably to the world’s analogues in terms of the yield and product quality; approximately ten new breeds, types, lines, and crosses of animals and birds, insects, and aquaculture; and develop approximately 170 new and improved technologies and technological processes for the production of agricultural raw materials, at least 120 technological methods and techniques for the production of agricultural products, 60…70 units of machines, devices, and equipment; 8…10 vaccines; 12…15 formulations and disinfectants; and 7…9 biochemical plant protection agents.</p>