A French university has reported receiving close to 300 applications from U.S.-based academics seeking “refugee status” following President Trump’s cessation of funding for several scientific programs. Aix-Marseille University, recognized as one of France’s oldest and largest universities, announced its Safe Place For Science program last month. The initiative aims to provide a supportive environment for scientists seeking the freedom to continue their research.
The university revealed that it received 298 applications, with 242 deemed eligible and under review. Among these, 135 applicants are American, 45 hold dual nationality, 17 are French, and 45 are from other countries. University President Éric Berton expressed satisfaction that the call for scientific refugee status has garnered media and political attention.
The applicants come from esteemed U.S. institutions such as Johns Hopkins University, NASA, the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, Yale, and Stanford. The program plans to accept around 20 Americans, who will commence their roles in June. Berton commented on the collective need to address scientific research challenges across France and Europe.
The Trump administration’s focus on spending cuts and workforce reduction has created a competitive environment for recruiting top U.S. talent. As a result, universities and medical research institutions face substantial federal funding reductions, affecting research in areas such as climate change and biomedical science.
Aix-Marseille is not alone in aiming to attract American academics. CentraleSupélec in France recently announced a $3.2 million grant to support U.S.-based research discontinued due to funding cuts. Additionally, the Netherlands’ Minister of Education, Culture and Science, Eppo Bruins, has proposed a fund to attract international science experts to the country.
Survey findings published in the journal Nature indicate that over 1,200 scientists point to Trump’s funding reductions as a reason for considering relocation to Canada or Europe. Online discussion forums have also reflected similar sentiments among academics contemplating opportunities abroad.
