Macron Launches Choose Europe for Science Initiative to Attract Global Talent

The world of research converged in Paris on May 5th, as French President Emmanuel Macron hosted a pivotal gathering at the Sorbonne alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The objective? To formally launch the "Choose Europe for Science" initiative, underscoring Europe's commitment to fostering an environment of stability and academic freedom that attracts top researchers from across the globe.

President Macron addressed the assembled crowd, stating, "This call is directed to all free minds who want to work for science and defend a certain vision of society. Researchers from all over the world, choose Europe for science!" This message resonated far beyond the Sorbonne walls, sparking a wave of excitement within the international research community.

Building a Research Powerhouse in Europe

The "Choose Europe for Science" initiative is more than just a symbolic gesture; it represents a concrete strategy to bolster Europe's position as a global leader in scientific innovation. In a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty, the initiative seeks to create a haven for intellectual freedom and collaboration, attracting the brightest minds to contribute to Europe's research landscape.

France has already witnessed significant success with its "Choose France for Science" program, which has garnered over 30,000 visits, with one-third originating from the United States. This demonstrates a clear appetite for opportunities within European research institutions, highlighting the initiative's effectiveness in generating interest.

President Macron emphasized that the goal is to welcome talent at all levels – from PhD students to renowned Nobel laureates – ensuring that Europe becomes a magnet for researchers seeking an environment that values intellectual excellence and groundbreaking discoveries.

Investing in Science: The Key to European Sovereignty

Recognizing the crucial role of research in driving innovation and securing Europe's future, President Macron outlined a vision where science serves as a catalyst for independence, competitiveness, and sovereignty. This vision is underpinned by a threefold approach:

• Strengthening free research to foster an environment conducive to intellectual exploration and discovery.
• Implementing policies that attract and retain top talent, creating a vibrant research ecosystem within Europe.
• Making strategic investments in the next generation of scientific and technological challenges, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of innovation.

These ambitious goals are being translated into concrete actions. President Macron announced an additional €100 million in funding from the French state through the "France 2030" initiative, demonstrating a tangible commitment to supporting research endeavors. Furthermore, the European Commission unveiled plans for "super grants," aimed at attracting and retaining leading researchers within the EU.

The Impact of Super Grants: Empowering Researchers

These "super grants," developed by the European Research Council (ERC), will offer significant financial support to researchers relocating to Europe, allowing them to establish new laboratories or research teams. The ERC Scientific Council has already doubled the additional funding available for grantees moving to Europe, with plans to increase this further to up to an additional €2 million.

The launch of the "Choose Europe for Science" initiative, coupled with these substantial funding opportunities, signifies a new era in European research. By prioritizing Science Initiative and creating an environment that actively Attracting talent, Europe is poised to become a global powerhouse in scientific discovery and innovation.

As President von der Leyen emphasized, these initiatives are crucial for strengthening the EU's strategic autonomy and ensuring its continued competitiveness on the world stage. By investing in research and nurturing a vibrant intellectual community, Europe is paving the way for a future driven by knowledge and groundbreaking advancements.

A Call to Action: Join the European Research Community

For researchers worldwide, the "Choose Europe for Science" initiative presents an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge discoveries within a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. With generous funding opportunities and a commitment to fostering academic freedom, Europe stands ready to welcome talented individuals who are passionate about shaping the future of science. As President Macron aptly stated, "Researchers from all over the world, choose Europe for science!"