The details of the fund are not yet known, but Bruins is in a hurry and is therefore announcing it now. According to him, more and more scientists are looking for another country to pursue their careers. “It is important that they think of the Netherlands in this regard. Other European countries like France, Germany, Spain, and Belgium are also taking the initiative to bring in international scientific talent.”

Just this week, Prime Minister Schoof advised against a motion submitted by Volt to bring American scientists to the Netherlands. He thought recruiting talent was a good idea, but not only talent from the United States. The cabinet is “not in favor of an approach specifically aimed at the US.” Bruins' letter also does not refer to tensions in the U.S. (or in other countries).

Regardless of nationality

In the coming weeks, Bruins and NWO want to clarify what the fund may cost when it will start, and what conditions scientists must meet.

The fund is emphatically not just for Dutch nationals currently working abroad. It will be open to “top international talent, regardless of nationality.” The ambition is to bring several dozen top scientists to the Netherlands.

Brain drain

U.S. President Trump wants to cut billions from research on climate, gender, health and the environment, among others. Research applications will be vetted for “problematic language” around diversity, equality and inclusiveness. This triggers a brain drain.

A French university in Marseille, meanwhile, has created a safe place for science: a program that can accommodate 15 scientists from the United States. These may include Europeans who want to return.