Bruins wants to bring top scientists to the Netherlands

The details of the fund have not yet been finalised, but Bruins is in a hurry and is therefore announcing (in Dutch) it now. According to him, an increasing number of scientists are seeking a new country in which to continue their careers. “It’s important that they consider the Netherlands,” he said. “Other European countries such as France, Germany, Spain, and Belgium are also taking steps to attract international scientific talent.”

Just this week, Prime Minister Schoof advised against a motion submitted by political party Volt to attract American scientists to the Netherlands. While he supported the idea of recruiting talent, he opposed a focus solely on talent from the United States. The cabinet is “not in favour of an approach specifically targeting the US.” Bruins’ letter also makes no reference to tensions in the US (or any other country).

Regardless of nationality

In the coming weeks, Bruins and NWO aim to clarify the fund’s budget, launch date, and the eligibility criteria for scientists.

The fund is explicitly not intended solely for Dutch nationals currently working abroad. The scheme will be open to “top-level international talent, regardless of nationality.” The goal is to attract several dozen top scientists to the Netherlands.

Brain drain

US President Trump plans to make significant cuts to research funding in areas such as climate, gender, health, and the environment. Research proposals are being scrutinised for ‘problematic language’ relating to diversity, equality, and inclusivity — a development that is triggering a brain drain.

A university in Marseille, France, has already established a “safe place for science” — a programme offering placements for fifteen scientists from the United States. These may also include Europeans who wish to return.