The European Union is going all-in on attracting American talent pushed away by the Trump Administration’s perceived hostility to science.
At a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron at Sorbonne University, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen referred to America’s anti-science turn as “a gigantic miscalculation.”:
“The role of science in today’s world is questioned. The investment in fundamental, free and open research is questioned. What a gigantic miscalculation,” von der Leyen said. “Science has no passport, no gender, no ethnicity or political party.”
The EU is launching a €500 million “Choose Europe for Science” program, while France is contributing €100 million. French Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste referred to developments in America as a “reverse enlightenment.”
Canada should join the EU in this initiative, or launch our own. Both Canada and the EU are attractive to U.S. researchers, given more open cultural attitudes, a stronger commitment to the rule of law, pragmatic leadership, and more rigorous protection for free scientific inquiry.
As noted in a previous article, there are steps Canada can take immediately to attract U.S. research talent:
- Expand the Global Talent Stream program, already dedicated to fast-tracking immigrants in the STEM fields.
- Utilize the Express Entry system and adjust targeted Express Entry draws to favour scientists and researchers.
- Utilize the Startup Visa Program and offer permanent residency for entrepreneurs looking to commercialize their research or startup technology, or biotech companies.
- Classify scientific & research fields as Priority Occupations to expedite permanent residency processing for scientists.
- Provinces can take action as well. For example, Ontario can utilize its Human Capital Priorities Stream to fast-track scientists and researchers. Other provinces should do the same.
A recent Nature survey of American researchers found 75% of respondents were considering leaving the U.S. This is an opportunity for Canada. By opening our arms to American talent, we can become a more innovative and prosperous nation.
Spencer Fernando
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