In a decisive move to bolster scientific research, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, extended an invitation to U.S. scientists facing challenges under the policies of President Donald Trump. Speaking at La Sorbonne University, von der Leyen promised enhanced financial incentives, extended contracts, reduced bureaucracy, and a legal commitment to uphold academic freedom.
"Now, more than ever, we must champion science—a universal pursuit that transcends borders and unites humanity," von der Leyen emphasized in her address. While she refrained from directly naming Trump, her remarks underscored a clear message: the EU is prepared to convert the current turmoil in the U.S. into an opportunity for European advancement in scientific research.
Trump's administration has implemented significant budget cuts affecting federal science agencies, research institutions, and medical centers, jeopardizing critical studies in areas such as climate change, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and HIV prevention. Recent requests for Congress to reduce funding by up to 37% at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and over 50% at the National Science Foundation (NSF) have intensified concerns regarding the sustainability of research funding in the U.S.
"Unfortunately, the essential role of science today is under scrutiny," von der Leyen remarked. "The investment in fundamental, free, and open research is being questioned. This represents a colossal misjudgment."
In response, von der Leyen unveiled a new initiative called "Choose Europe," aimed at attracting scientists and researchers from the U.S. and beyond to the EU. This initiative seeks to mitigate bureaucratic hurdles, enhance access to venture capital, and provide long-term contracts along with higher allowances. The EU will further establish a seven-year "super grant" and an additional financial "top-up" for those who choose to relocate.
"The foremost priority is to ensure that scientific endeavors in Europe remain open and free," she stated, urging the audience to recognize this commitment as the EU's calling card. "We must do everything in our power to uphold this principle—now more than ever."
French President Emmanuel Macron, who followed von der Leyen at La Sorbonne, explicitly condemned the Trump administration's approach to scientific funding. "No one could have foreseen that one of the world's largest democracies would dismantle research programs under the guise of diversity," Macron asserted. He emphasized the moral imperative to protect research in critical fields, including women's health and climate action, noting that "lives are at risk" due to these policy shifts.
With the "Choose Europe" initiative, the EU aims to fortify its position as a global leader in scientific research, ensuring that the freedom and integrity of science are preserved amidst the challenges posed by recent U.S. policies.
