Do All RSE Communities Grow the Same Way?

Research Software Engineers (RSEs) play a critical role in enabling modern research, yet recognition, career pathways, and institutional support for RSEs remain uneven globally. While the UK and parts of the USA have established RSE communities and support structures, comparatively little is known about the evolving RSE landscape across other regions, including the highly diverse research environments in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This poster presents an ongoing community-driven study exploring the Research Software Engineering landscape in Asia through surveys, community engagement, and collaboration with regional and international RSE networks. The work investigates how RSE roles are defined, supported, and recognised across institutions and countries, while also identifying common challenges related to career progression, visibility, training opportunities, and sustainability of research software practices. The project is being conducted through the RSE Asia Association in collaboration with members of the global RSE community. Preliminary findings highlight the diversity of RSE identities and institutional structures across the region, alongside a growing need for community infrastructure, regional collaboration, and pathways for professional recognition. For regions like Australia, Africa, and Latin America, we are trying to gain insights by organising an umbrella RSE conference for the Global South region. By documenting emerging RSE ecosystems outside traditionally established regions, this work contributes evidence towards understanding how global RSE communities can support sustainable, reproducible, and collaborative research practices across diverse contexts.