“Choose Europe for Science” campaign offers substantial incentives to researchers affected by U.S. policy shifts

The “Choose Europe for Science” campaign, announced at Sorbonne University in Paris, seeks to position Europe as a haven for scientific inquiry and innovation.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized Europe’s commitment to scientific freedom, stating, “We want to ensure that researchers, no matter where they come from, see Europe not just as an option, but as a preferred home for their work.” She highlighted the EU’s dedication to values such as openness, ethical responsibility, and democratic accountability in scientific endeavors.

The initiative includes a €500 million fund from the EU and an additional €100 million from France, aimed at providing “super grants,” longer contracts, and relocation bonuses to attract top-tier researchers. These incentives are designed to counteract the effects of U.S. federal funding cuts and policy shifts that have raised concerns within the American scientific community.

French President Emmanuel Macron supported the campaign, noting the importance of maintaining Europe’s position in global scientific leadership, particularly in fields like health, space, artificial intelligence, and climate change. He also addressed concerns about domestic research funding, assuring that the incentives for foreign researchers would not detract from existing French research budgets.

While the initiative has been met with enthusiasm, some experts caution that attracting talent involves more than financial incentives. “Attracting talent is not just about funding; it’s about long-term career stability, administrative efficiency, and access to cutting-edge infrastructure,” noted a research policy expert.

Nonetheless, the “Choose Europe for Science” campaign represents a strategic effort by the EU to bolster its scientific community and reaffirm its commitment to research and innovation on the global stage.