China and Europe Compete for China born Talent as U.S. Scientists Face Challenges

China and Europe are actively courting U.S.-based researchers facing funding cuts and political challenges. China offers lucrative recruitment programs, targeting Chinese-born scientists with competitive salaries. Meanwhile, Europe promotes academic freedom, launching initiatives like the €500 million "Choose Europe for Science" campaign. U.S. scientists, particularly those of Chinese origin, feel pressured by reduced federal budgets and lingering scrutiny under the China Initiative. A Nature survey reveals over 75% of American researchers are considering relocating, with Europe and Canada as top destinations.

In response to the increasing challenges facing researchers in the United States, China and Europe are stepping up efforts to attract scientific talent with substantial incentives and promises of academic freedom. These initiatives come as many U.S.-based scientists, including Chinese-born researchers, grapple with funding cuts and heightened political scrutiny, prompting some to consider relocating.

China's Recruitment Push Targets Researchers in the U.S.

China is intensifying its efforts to lure back Chinese-born researchers who are currently based in the United States. According to a senior geologist in Beijing, the country has introduced recruitment programs offering lucrative packages to those willing to return.

These programs, designed to address the financial and professional concerns of researchers, include highly appealing postdoctoral positions with annual salaries reaching as high as $100,000 for three years—a compensation level comparable to that of an assistant professor.

“Such offers are notably higher than the typical earnings of postdoctoral researchers in both China and the U.S.,” the geologist noted, speaking to the South China Morning Post on the condition of anonymity.

The programs are particularly aimed at addressing the growing uncertainties faced by scientists in the U.S., where research funding has come under threat. A prominent Chinese-American biologist, who has worked in the U.S. for decades, described this trend as a "quiet migration," with many researchers making preparations to return to China but refraining from announcing their decisions until finalized.

Challenges for Scientists in the U.S.

The difficulties for China-born scientists in the U.S. have been mounting since Donald Trump returned to the presidency in January. On one hand, federal science agencies are facing severe budget cuts under Trump’s proposed 2026 budget plan. This includes a 37% reduction in funding for the National Institutes of Health, a halving of the National Science Foundation’s budget, and significant cuts to NASA’s science programs. On the other hand, lingering scrutiny from the controversial China Initiative—a program initially launched during Trump’s first term—has left many Chinese-American researchers feeling targeted due to past collaborations with Chinese institutions.

At an online event last month, a vaccine researcher based in New York explained that young Chinese researchers, especially those who have retained their Chinese nationality, are feeling the brunt of this pressure. “If they have the option to return to China, many will likely take it,” the researcher said, also requesting anonymity to avoid potential repercussions.

Europe Offers a Safe Haven for Researchers

While China targets Chinese-born researchers, Europe is positioning itself as a haven for scientists worldwide, including those disillusioned by the current climate in the U.S. European leaders are openly courting American researchers with promises of funding and academic freedom.

At a recent conference in Paris, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a €500 million ($557 million) initiative titled "Choose Europe for Science." This program aims to make Europe a global hub for research and innovation over the next two years. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these sentiments, pledging an additional €100 million to attract international scientific talent. “If you love freedom, come and do your research here,” Macron declared.

European universities are already seeing significant interest. Aix-Marseille University in France reported receiving hundreds of applications from U.S.-based researchers through its "Safe Place For Science" program, with nearly half of them coming from American citizens.

Scientists Weigh Their Options

The growing interest in relocation is underscored by a recent survey published in Nature magazine, which found that over 75% of U.S.-based scientists are considering leaving the country. Among the 1,200 participants in the survey, Europe and Canada emerged as the most favored destinations.

As the U.S. scientific community faces dwindling resources and increasing restrictions, China and Europe are competing to fill the void. Whether through financial incentives or promises of intellectual freedom, both regions are offering researchers a way forward in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.

This article is based on reporting from the SCMP