The decisions regarding funding cuts have resulted in a significant migration of researchers from the United States, with many scientists opting to pursue their careers abroad. An analysis published in Nature revealed that 75 percent of surveyed American scientists are contemplating leaving the country. Furthermore, data from Nature Careers, a global scientific employment platform, indicates that American professionals have sent 32 percent more applications to foreign institutions between January and March of this year compared to the same timeframe last year. Additionally, there has been a 35 percent increase in American users exploring international job opportunities.
Simultaneously, there has been a notable decline in international interest in working in the United States. Applications from scientists in Canada, China, and Europe to U.S. research centers dropped by 13 percent, 39 percent, and 41 percent, respectively, during the first quarter of the year.
In response, European institutions are intensifying efforts to attract U.S. talent. Aix-Marseille University in France launched "A Safe Place for Science," a program designed to support U.S. researchers impacted by policies under the Trump administration. This initiative is supported by a €15 million investment.
Similarly, the Max Planck Society in Germany has introduced the Max Planck Transatlantic Program to establish joint research centers with U.S. institutions. The program aims to consider outstanding U.S. researchers for director positions, as stated by the society’s director, Patrick Cramer.
Spain is also actively participating in the effort to attract global scientific talent. Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Spain’s secretary of state for science, innovation, and universities, highlighted the country’s focus on quantum biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and semiconductors to enhance technological sovereignty.
To accomplish these goals, the Spanish government, under Pedro Sánchez, has reinforced existing programs, such as the ATRAE program, with an additional €45 million aimed at recruiting leading researchers, particularly from the United States. Selected U.S. experts will receive an extra €200,000 per project.
Moreover, the Ramón y Cajal program, established 25 years ago to support young scientists, has seen a 150 percent increase in funding since 2018, now supporting 500 researchers annually, of which 30 percent are foreign.
Cigudosa stated to Spanish international news agency EFE that efforts to attract U.S. talent will be intensified, aiming for a scientific environment free from ideological limitations. He emphasized that scientific and technological knowledge enhances the country’s prosperity and future vision. This initiative falls under the Choose Europe for Science program.
This report was initially published on WIRED en Español and translated from Spanish.
