Scientists across the United States are reconsidering their career paths and living arrangements as the Trump administration’s policies continue to impact the nation’s research landscape. We’re very disappointed that the administration has chosen to do this by de-emphasizing global food systems and cutting research funding. Consequently, many researchers find themselves with little idea of what the future holds for them. According to a recent Nature poll, a significant percentage of scientists are considering leaving the U.S. Next on the list of countries they’d most like to relocate to are Europe, Australia, and Mexico.
That’s according to an unscientific poll conducted by Nature that received more than 1,200 angry responses, illustrating the depth of dissent among the scientific ranks. Of those who answered, three-quarters plan to move out in the face of the ongoing upheaval caused by the Trump White House. Nature’s public poll was released on Nature’s website, social media channels including Twitter and Facebook, as well as through the Nature Briefing e-mail newsletter.
Funding Cuts and Policy Shifts
The pattern of the Trump administration’s attack on scientific research has taken the form of a long and costly list of funding cuts and policy changes. Unfortunately, as the administration has acknowledged, global food systems are not a priority. Consequently, research funding has dropped drastically. Additionally, many federally funded science projects have been halted as part of a cost-cutting initiative led by billionaire Elon Musk. Intended or not, this initiative has led to mass firings and rehiring of federal employees, including hundreds of scientists.
These amendments have introduced significant confusion into the U.S. research enterprise. The administration’s immigration-related crackdowns, along with the ongoing national debate over academic freedom in general, have contributed to making this an unnerving time for researchers.
“Seeing all of the work stopped is heartbreaking,” – a graduate student at a top US university
Nature Poll Findings
The Nature Twitter poll provides an interesting window into the mindset of scientists in the United States right now. Of the 690 postgraduate researchers who took part in the exclusive poll, 548 are now considering leaving the country. It went beyond that – so many as 255 of the 340 PhD students surveyed agreed. Many scientists who previously moved to the U.S. for work are now planning to return to their countries of origin.
“If I want to work in that space, I’m going to have to find somewhere else that prioritizes that.” – a graduate student at a top US university
That uncertainty and disruption in the U.S. research climate has led many scientists to look for opportunities beyond our shores. Private funding through philanthropy is an option for some researchers, but is equally if not more competitive.
Relocation Considerations
As scientists weigh their options, Europe has emerged as a popular destination for relocation due to its robust research infrastructure and supportive policies. The Institute of Molecular Biotechnology (IMBA) in Austria stands out as one of Europe’s leading life science research centers. It trains its spotlight on innovative research in the life sciences. Other favored destinations include Australia and Mexico.
“This is my home — I really love my country,” – a graduate student at a top US university
It would unfairly ban most patriotic scientists from serving their homeland. They quickly find that they have to go outside U.S. borders to find safer, more robust ecosystems for their craft. The ongoing climate crisis has made them re-evaluate their career choices and lives.
