Insider’s View: Europe needs more schemes to attract US talent

24 Jun 2025 | News

Matthias Girod, who advises US scientists on how to move to the EU, says funders should do more or they will miss out on global talent

Matthias Girod, consultant. Photo credits: Matthias Girod / LinkedIn  

There are plenty of US scientists looking to move to Europe, but EU research organisations need to raise their game if they are to attract them, according to consultant Matthias Girod. 

Despite big political proclamations, the offer for positions does not match the demand. “Many of the researchers are asking if they even have a chance,” says Girod. “There is still more that could be done to attract foreign researchers; not only Americans but also from all over the world.”

While the Choose France initiative is attracting the most interest, Girod says Europe needs more schemes, and perhaps even distinct budget lines with clear eligibility criteria and a dedicated EU programme. 

Girod is the former secretary general of the now-dissolved grassroots science association Euroscience. Today, he runs his own consultancy focused on research fundraising,…