The Tide of Researchers Turns – Europe Attracts American Talent

By Mika Horelli, Brussels

If writing truthful history isn't outlawed, it'll be fascinating to ponder how future generations might objectively describe our current times.

Throughout history, we've become accustomed to witnessing a steady flow of researchers from Europe to the United States, attracted by superior working conditions—and salaries. Now, this trend seems to be reversing, at least temporarily. The reason is America's increasingly hostile political environment towards science and research. "Alternative truths" have alarmingly become the dominant trend.

Donald Trump's return to the White House has driven many American researchers, including those originally from other countries, to seek new opportunities in Europe. European universities and research institutions have quickly responded, offering attractive opportunities to their American counterparts.

Brussels' Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is among the pioneers. The university recently announced twelve international postdoctoral positions aimed explicitly at American researchers in socially significant fields. These prestigious positions, receiving substantial funding totalling €2.5 million, are part of the European Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA).

VUB Rector Jan Danckaert has been outspoken in his criticism of the Trump administration's actions: "American universities and their researchers are among the main victims of this political and ideological interference. They're witnessing millions in research funding vanish for ideological reasons."

VUB isn't alone. In France, Aix-Marseille Université has launched the "Safe Place for Science" initiative to attract American researchers, especially those in climate science and health research. The university plans to raise €10 million to host around fifteen researchers over the next three years.

Norway has also reacted to this new situation. Svein Stølen, Rector of the University of Oslo, stated, "We anticipate an exodus of researchers from the United States. These challenging times allow Norway to attract leading researchers across various disciplines."

But what's driving researchers away from America? Within months, Trump's administration has significantly curtailed academic freedom across U.S. universities, mainly targeting climate change and public health research.

One major step taken by the administration has been freezing federal research funding. Trump threatens to slash $40 billion from institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the world's largest biomedical research agency. This funding supports over 300,000 researchers in more than 2,500 universities and research centres across the United States.

Furthermore, Trump has threatened to withdraw federal funding from universities allowing so-called "illegal demonstrations." This forces institutions to curtail students' freedom of expression for fear of losing federal support.

This environment has prompted many researchers to seriously consider leaving the U.S. According to Science magazine, several researchers report that the administration's disruptive policies undermine their decision to continue in science or compel them to consider moving abroad.

European universities have quickly seized this opportunity. They see a chance to attract top talent and strengthen their research profiles, emphasizing their commitment to academic freedom and research independence.

VUB's Rector Danckaert emphasizes: "As a European frontrunner in climate research, IVF, artificial intelligence, and geopolitical security, VUB provides an exceptional environment where top-tier American researchers can freely work."

However, this shift also raises concerns. While European universities may benefit, weakening American science represents a global loss. The U.S. has long led the world in scientific research, and diminishing its role could slow scientific advancement in numerous areas.

Additionally, we must consider whether this phenomenon is temporary. If America's political climate changes again, will researchers return, or is this a more permanent shift in global academia?

Europe must capitalize on this moment responsibly and sustainably, creating research environments and infrastructures attractive to top researchers in the long term—not merely as a temporary haven.

At the same time, Europe should continue collaborating with American colleagues, advocating academic freedom and supporting scientific research in the United States. Science is fundamentally global, and its progress benefits everyone.

The reversal of the researcher flow towards Europe is a historic shift presenting a unique opportunity. Now is the time to demonstrate Europe's readiness to lead in global science and research while firmly upholding the values of academic freedom and scientific progress.

You can subscribe to this blog for future updates.