Minister Bruins claims an increasing number of scientists are looking to continue their careers elsewhere. ‘Having the consider the Netherlands is critical’, he says. Illustration Shutterstock. Scientists wanting to relocate to another country due to ‘increasing tensions’ are welcome in the Netherlands, says Minister Bruins. Research funding organisation NWO will launch a fund as soon as possible.
Details of the fund have not yet been revealed, but Bruins is in a hurry and has made an announcement now. He claims an increasing number of scientists seek to continue their careers elsewhere. ‘Having the consider the Netherlands as an option is critical. Other European countries such as France, Germany, Spain and Belgium are taking similar initiatives to attract international scientific talent.’
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Schoof advised against a motion submitted by Volt to bring American scientists to the Netherlands. He said he was in favour of attracting talent, just not exclusively from the United States. The cabinet is also not in favour of an approach directed specifically at the US.’ Bruins’ letter does not specify tensions in the United States (or elsewhere).
Regardless of nationality
Bruins and the NWO aim to clarify details on the fund’s budget, starting date, and conditions that will apply to the scientists in the coming weeks.
The fund is not specifically meant for Dutch scientists currently working abroad but will be open to ‘international talent at the highest level, regardless of nationality’. The ambition is to attract several dozens of elite scientists.
Brain drain
American President Trump is cutting budgets for research on climate, gender, health and the environment. Research applications are screened on “problematic language” related to diversity, equity and inclusion. A brain drain is the result.
A French university in Marseille has created a safe place for science: a programme offering room for fifteen scientists from the United States, including Europeans wishing to return.
