American researchers, citing political pressure and funding threats under the Trump administration, are relocating to France under a new academic refuge program, "Safe Place for Science," launched by Aix-Marseille University.
Victor Goury-Laffont reports for POLITICO.
In short:
- Aix-Marseille University welcomed eight U.S.-based academics as the first cohort in its “Safe Place for Science” program, offering positions to researchers who fear retribution or cuts at home.
- Nearly 300 researchers from institutions like Stanford and Yale applied to the program, which provides equal French academic salaries and aims to double its capacity if matched by government funding.
- Participants cited concerns over academic freedom, research support, and political interference under President Trump, making comparisons to historical periods of scientific exile.
Key quote:
“The entire system of research and the entire education in the United States is really under attack.”
— Brian Sandberg, professor of history at Northern Illinois University
Why this matters:
Political interference in science can ripple far beyond university walls. When researchers pull back or flee, public health, climate modeling, and technological innovation lose ground. In recent years, American scientists have reported growing fear of retaliation, tighter control over research funding, and hostility toward fields like climate science and public health. These pressures can discourage young talent and leave critical questions unanswered — about rising sea levels, toxic exposures, and even the spread of disease. In addition to the Aix-Marseille University program, both France and the European Union have launched plans to recruit U.S. research talent. As Europe positions itself as a haven for displaced academics, the U.S. risks ceding leadership in global science.
Related: Europe steps up funding to attract U.S. scientists facing cuts under Trump
