The number of U.S. scientists applying to relocate to Spain has doubled, with one-third of candidates for the Atrae program coming from the U.S., marking a significant increase attributed to political control over science in the U.S.
The Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities, alongside the State Research Agency, has announced that applications for the Atrae program have surged, with over 254 researchers globally applying. Notably, one-third of these candidates are from the United States, indicating a significant trend in academic migration. This shift follows a growing concern among American scientists regarding political influences on scientific research and funding under the Trump administration.
In the first edition of the Atrae grant in 2023, no U.S. researchers applied, whereas in 2024, U.S. applicants made up 16% of the total. The increase to 33% in the most recent application window reflects a desperate search for stable research environments outside the political constraints faced in the United States. The Atrae program, endowed with €39 million, aims to attract established and internationally recognized talent to Spain, potentially bolstering the country’s scientific community and innovation landscape.
This trend not only highlights the challenges facing U.S. scientists but also poses implications for Spain's research capabilities. By welcoming more U.S. scholars, Spain can enhance its academic prestige and foster a more diverse scientific dialogue. The rising interest from American researchers signals a broader struggle within the U.S. over issues of academic freedom, scientific integrity, and the growing desire for an unregulated environment to pursue research.
