R is a programming language and free software environment for statistical computing and graphics. R provides a wide variety of statistical (linear and nonlinear modeling, classical statistical tests, time-series analysis, classification, clustering), and graphical techniques.
The R project runs as an open-source package under the GNU General Public License, but nearly all of the R code available from CRAN (Comprehensive R Archive Network) may be downloaded and used without licensing restrictions.
Other current and past users of R include biotech firms such as Amgen and Bayer CropScience; financial services companies including HSBC and Société Générale; pharmaceutical industry giants GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca; technology providers such as Apple Inc.; government agencies such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Institutes of Health; and universities such as Harvard, MIT, Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, and Stanford (Wikipedia contributors, 2016).
R is a powerful language that can be used in a variety of industries. With its open-source availability and community support, it is becoming more popular every day. If you are looking for a new language to learn or want to expand your skillset, R may be the perfect option for you!