European nations are actively recruiting American researchers deterred by budget cuts and policy restrictions under the Trump administration, particularly in Spain, France, and Germany.
EU Initiatives Target American Scientists
European countries aim to facilitate scientific work for researchers unable to thrive in U.S. institutions due to budgetary cuts and restrictions imposed by the Trump administration.
Spain’s Ministry of Science and its research agency recorded a twofold increase in applications from the U.S. to a major national research program in 2025. Germany saw a 32 percent rise in residence permits issued to U.S. citizens from January to September 2026, compared to the same period in 2024-25, for professional activity, training, study, and job seeking.
France’s “Safe Place for Science” Program
France’s “Safe Place for Science” program focuses on research areas like environment, gender, history, and biology, which, according to Eric Berton, rector of Aix-Marseille University, “were banned by the Trump administration.”
European Commission Launches “Choose Europe for Science”
In May 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the “Choose Europe for Science” program, funded with approximately 500 million euros, to attract candidates from the U.S.
Factors Discouraging U.S. Scientists
The Trump administration implemented budget cuts impacting universities and research centers, freezing numerous funds and grants supporting research in fields like biomedicine and climate change.
Harvard University, among others, suffered from canceled federal contracts and threats of funding withdrawal, leading to open conflict between Trump and prestigious universities.
U.S. Scientific Leadership at Risk
During the Cold War, the U.S. led in scientific research due to substantial federal investment. “El Pais” assesses that this position is now threatened by Trump’s policies.
