Amid Trump’s culture war, many American researchers are leaving the U.S. due to fears of repression, prompting French universities like Aix-Marseille to offer ‘scientific asylum.’ University president Eric Berton emphasizes the initiative’s urgency, allocating 15 million euros to support distressed scholars. The university aims to recruit 15-20 researchers facing life-threatening situations, with over 160 applications received. Other French institutions, like the University of Toulouse, are also stepping up, while concerns about funding persist.
Trump’s Culture War and Its Impact on US Researchers
In the midst of the ongoing culture war spearheaded by Trump, many American researchers are feeling the pressure and are choosing to leave the United States due to fears of repression. In a proactive response, universities in France are stepping in to offer ‘scientific asylum’ to these scholars in distress.
Aix-Marseille University Takes Action
Stepping into the expansive office of university president Eric Berton can leave one momentarily awestruck. A large window frames a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea, olive trees, and a sun-drenched pier. It seems like an idyllic setting for research.
However, the stunning scenery contrasts sharply with Berton’s serious demeanor. “We are witnessing a historic moment,” he expresses. “Our American colleagues are in shock. This situation is far from trivial, and those of us in Europe may not fully grasp the gravity of the events unfolding.” Many US scientists are actively seeking a new academic sanctuary.
Determined to make a difference, Berton has allocated part of Aix-Marseille University’s excellence funds—amounting to 15 million euros—into a program dedicated to supporting distressed American scientists. “We offer scientific asylum,” he states emphatically, clarifying that this initiative is not merely a strategy to attract talent. “We wish it were not necessary, but we must respond to this crisis. Hence, we are providing scientific asylum for a duration of three years.”
Berton plans to recruit between 15 and 20 US researchers, with approximately 800,000 euros available per individual for salary, equipment, and related study expenses. Despite the relatively low salaries at French universities compared to international standards, Aix-Marseille University has already received over 160 applications since March, with the selection process currently underway.
The selection criteria are straightforward: Does the applicant’s research align with the university’s institutes and laboratories? And is the individual facing a life-threatening situation? The first researchers are expected to arrive in May.
Amidst this uncertainty, one researcher, Andrea, shared her concerns during a French radio interview. “The most significant impact of Trump’s policies on my work has been the overwhelming sense of uncertainty and fear. Although I still have my position and funding, we receive no information on our future funding prospects,” she revealed.
According to the Trump administration, terms such as climate, woman, equality, and inclusion are no longer permissible in scientific literature. Berton reports a surge in applications from researchers in gender studies, history, health, climate science, and even astrophysics, including some from NASA. “These stories are heartbreaking. Researchers are losing their jobs and having their fields eliminated overnight. Many contact us through secure messaging apps, fearing repercussions,” he explained.
While protests against Trump’s policies have been infrequent, the academic community is beginning to take a stand against the cuts.
In a parallel effort, the University of Toulouse has launched its own initiative, providing six million euros to support US researchers. French Research Minister Philippe Batiste is vocally advocating for a welcoming environment for American academics in France: “The developments in the USA have significant repercussions for research here, particularly concerning access to vital databases. Suddenly, they vanish or access codes change, creating chaos.”
Despite the minister’s support, there has been no announcement of additional funding from the state, leading to skepticism among some institutions and unions regarding the feasibility of accepting US colleagues while many French research facilities face severe funding shortages.
As more American scientists seek opportunities abroad, many are finding their way to Germany as well.
Berton acknowledges the challenges faced by French scientists in precarious positions but remains unfazed by critiques of his initiative. “We must rise to this historic occasion and avoid self-absorbed thinking. What transpires in the USA affects us all. Science is inherently international; therefore, we need to adopt a global perspective,” he asserted. He encourages other European universities to join his cause, highlighting that the number of applications has exceeded expectations, and he is willing to refer them to other institutions in need of talent.