American scientists in exile: an opportunity for Luxembourg?

The scientific community is facing an alarming crisis in the United States, where research funding, academic freedom and international collaboration have been threatened by political decisions. Under the Trump administration, restrictions on scientific discourse and budget cuts have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, prompting scientists and institutions around the world to respond. The "Stand Up for Science" movement has emerged in response, calling for the protection of research and the integrity of scientific investigation.

It is difficult to find anyone in Luxembourg to talk to on this subject. Dr Lawrence Honaker, a postdoctoral researcher in the experimental soft matter physics group at the University of Luxembourg, agreed to talk to us. He offers a unique perspective on the evolution of science policy in the United States. Having left the country in 2015, Dr Honaker has watched the deterioration in research conditions from afar. "Expressing your opinion is supposed to be a protected right in the US, but today scientists fear professional repercussions, " he notes. The situation has worsened to the point where French researchers have been refused entry to the United States because of political criticisms made in private that were found on their phones when they went through customs. They were effectively refused entry.

Lawrence Honaker highlights the growing concerns among international students. They face uncertain paths to permanent residency in the United States. "The visa system creates a precarious situation", he explains, stressing that students who leave the country often find it difficult to return. With research funding subject to strict regulations, universities face increased restrictions on international collaborations.

Repression of academic discourse has increased in the United States in recent weeks. Researchers are reporting increased scrutiny of their work, particularly in areas that contradict political narratives. Climatologists, epidemiologists and sociologists are facing particular obstacles, leading to self-censorship or the abandonment of crucial studies.