Europe Launches Science Recruitment Drive Amid U.S. Research Cuts/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The European Union unveiled a major initiative to attract global scientists and researchers in response to the Trump administration’s freeze on U.S. funding for projects tied to diversity and inclusion. At an event in Paris, EU leaders announced new grant programs and legal protections for academic freedom, urging displaced U.S. researchers to relocate to Europe.
Europe’s Science Recruitment Push: Quick Looks
- EU Launches ‘Super Grant’ Program: €500 million in new research funding will be allocated for 2025–2027.
- Triggered by U.S. Cuts: Trump’s halt to DEI-linked science funding prompts Europe to act.
- Macron’s Strong Message: “If you like freedom, come do research in Europe.”
- Von der Leyen Pledges Protection: EU to enshrine scientific freedom into law.
- Over 380 U.S. Grants Canceled: Cancellations include environmental and internet freedom research.
- Protests Erupt in U.S.: Scientists oppose restrictions tied to politics and ideology.
- No Borders for Science: EU leaders say diversity is vital to scientific advancement.
- Reduced Red Tape Promised: EU to ease barriers for incoming researchers and businesses.
- A Geopolitical Opportunity: EU sees chance to become the global hub for innovation.
Europe Launches Science Recruitment Drive Amid U.S. Research Cuts
Deep Look
The European Union has launched an ambitious effort to position itself as the world’s leading destination for scientific talent, following a controversial decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to cancel hundreds of federal research grants tied to diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and misinformation studies.
Speaking at the “Choose Europe for Science” forum held at Sorbonne University in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced sweeping initiatives aimed at attracting scientists, researchers, and academics affected by the U.S. policy shift. Their message was clear: Europe is open, well-funded, and ready to welcome the global scientific community.
Macron, addressing a room of academics and policymakers, called the Trump administration’s move to cancel research projects “unthinkable” and “a blow to academic freedom.”
“A few years ago, no one would have imagined that one of the world’s greatest democracies would shut down research because the word ‘diversity’ was in the proposal,” Macron said. “But here we are.”
Von der Leyen, in a passionate address, announced a €500 million ($566 million) “super grant” program, which will be distributed through the European Research Council over the next two years. The initiative aims to lure top talent from abroad and build Europe’s scientific leadership.
“We want to make Europe a magnet for researchers,” she said, stressing that the EU intends to legally enshrine the freedom of scientific inquiry. “As threats to research rise around the world, Europe will not compromise on its principles.”
These announcements follow a wave of unrest in the U.S. scientific community. Since Trump issued an executive order cutting off support for research tied to DEI and misinformation, the National Science Foundation has canceled more than 380 grants. These include projects aimed at countering censorship in China and Iran, as well as those involving Indigenous communities and environmental change in the Arctic.
The cuts have sparked outrage among academics, many of whom argue that political interference is eroding scientific integrity. Protests have erupted on university campuses across the U.S., as researchers decry what they see as a rollback of academic freedoms and a dangerous politicization of scientific funding.
Von der Leyen didn’t mention the U.S. or Trump directly, but her comments were unmistakable in tone and intent. “Science has no passport, no gender, no ethnicity, no political party,” she said. “We believe diversity is not a threat — it’s the lifeblood of science.”
In addition to financial incentives, von der Leyen pledged to streamline immigration and reduce red tape for incoming scientists and innovators. The EU plans to address longstanding administrative barriers that have often deterred foreign researchers from relocating.
Macron echoed those sentiments, stating that science “must not be based on the diktats of the few,” and emphasized Europe’s duty to safeguard global research from ideological control. “Europe must become a refuge,” Macron said. “To all scientists who feel threatened or constrained: the message is simple — if you like freedom, come and help us remain free.”
This push is not only about values. It’s also strategic. As Europe competes with China, the U.S., and other nations to lead in innovation, AI, climate research, and medical science, retaining and recruiting top talent is vital. Trump’s restrictions present a rare geopolitical opening for Europe to reposition itself as the primary hub for scientific advancement.
The EU already operates under Horizon Europe, a €95.5 billion science funding framework. The newly announced “super grant” scheme is designed to work alongside this system to offer longer-term funding and greater research freedom.
The European Research Council, which will manage the new funds, has a strong track record of supporting breakthroughs across disciplines. Now, with added momentum and political backing, the EU hopes to supercharge its global appeal.
As the U.S. scientific community reels from policy shocks and ideological shifts, Europe is signaling not only openness — but ambition.
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