As the Trump administration slashed billions in federal funding for scientific research, thousands of U.S. scientists lost jobs or grants — prompting global institutions to seize the moment. Countries like Canada, France, and Australia launched initiatives to attract displaced researchers, offering support, funding, and the promise of academic freedom. Programs such as Canada’s “Canada Leads” and France’s “Safe Place for Science” have seen a surge in interest from U.S.-based scientists. Australia’s “Global Talent Attraction Program” has also drawn applicants with generous relocation offers.

While U.S. investment in R&D remains globally dominant, the proposed cuts — including a 40% reduction to the NIH and 55% to the NSF — have disrupted research across institutions. Hiring freezes and canceled grants have left early-career researchers like Brandon Coventry and Marianna Zhang uncertain about their futures.

European and Australian recruiters report a rise in applications and inquiries from American scientists, though relocating abroad comes with logistical challenges. Institutions stress that their motivation is not to capitalize on U.S. losses, but to prevent a global brain drain. As international collaborations risk being jeopardized, scientific leaders like Patrick Cramer and Patrick Schultz warn that diminished U.S. support could harm global research and innovation.