Macron Invites Global Scientists to France

French President Emmanuel Macron has extended an invitation to scientists worldwide to work in France and Europe, as the new administration of U.S. President Donald Trump implements sweeping cuts to university and research funding.

Macron did not explicitly name the U.S., where hundreds of researchers have lost their positions amid broader tensions between Trump and Ivy League institutions. In a post on X, he declared: "Here in France, research is a priority, innovation a culture, science a limitless horizon. Researchers from all over the world, choose France, choose Europe!"

Trump administration officials have cited last year’s pro-Palestinian campus protests as justification for increased scrutiny of universities. Critics, however, argue these measures suppress free speech and undermine academic freedom.

France Launches Initiative to Attract Researchers

On Friday, France unveiled the "Choose France for Science" platform, operated by the French National Research Agency (ANR), which will provide co-funding for institutions hosting international researchers. The initiative, set to open for applications on May 5, aims to position France as a hub for global scientific talent.

"France is committed to standing up to attacks on academic freedom across the globe," the ANR said in a statement, noting that shifting global dynamics have spurred unprecedented researcher mobility. The platform will prioritize projects in health, climate, artificial intelligence, space studies, agriculture, and renewable energy.

The announcement follows reports that the first wave of researchers affected by U.S. funding cuts will begin work at Aix-Marseille University in June. The university’s "Safe Place for Science" program has seen a surge in applications since its March launch.

University President Eric Berton has called for the creation of a "refugee scientist" status and urged broader European efforts to welcome displaced researchers. The move underscores Europe’s bid to capitalize on America’s academic upheaval—and reaffirm its commitment to open scientific inquiry.