French President Emmanuel Macron has launched the “Choose France for Science” initiative, inviting international scientists—especially from the U.S.—to continue their research in France or Europe. The move comes as U.S. President Donald Trump slashes funding for universities and research institutions, sparking job losses and concerns over academic freedom.
While Macron did not directly name the U.S., he posted on X: “Here in France, research is a priority, innovation a culture, science a limitless horizon. Researchers from all over the world, choose France, choose Europe!”
France’s National Research Agency (ANR) will oversee the platform, allowing universities and institutions to apply for government co-funding to host international researchers. The program targets key fields such as climate, health, AI, agriculture, and space.
The online application platform will launch on May 5, with Aix Marseille University set to welcome the first U.S. researchers in June under its “Safe Place for Science” scheme. University President Eric Berton has called for official recognition of “refugee scientist” status.
France positions itself as a defender of academic freedom and a haven for researchers amid rising global tensions.
