The European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has announced a €500 million incentives package for 2025-2027, aimed at transforming Europe into a global hub for scientific research. The initiative, unveiled at the Choose Europe for Science conference in Paris, seeks to lure top researchers, particularly those affected by funding cuts and policy shifts in the United States.
Strengthening Europe’s Research Landscape
Von der Leyen emphasized that science is an investment, stating that Europe must offer the right incentives to attract leading experts. The funding will support research institutions, universities, and innovation programs, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to scientific freedom and technological advancement.
Targeting Displaced Talent
The initiative comes amid concerns that US-based researchers are facing political and financial pressures, including cuts to federal funding. The EU aims to provide a stable research environment, ensuring that scientists can pursue groundbreaking work without restrictions.
Long-Term Vision for Scientific Excellence
The European Commission has set a goal to invest 3% of GDP in research and development by 2030, positioning Europe as a leader in fields such as AI, climate science, and biotechnology. The package includes seven-year “super grants” under the European Research Council, offering long-term stability to top scientists.
