Can the United States Retain Its Scientific Talent?

For decades, the United States has benefited from its ability to attract and retain many of the world’s leading scientists and researchers through world-class universities, a robust research enterprise, and sustained federal investment in innovation. But recent uncertainty surrounding federal research funding has raised concerns about whether the United States can continue to retain the scientific talent that underpins its technological leadership.

As research funding becomes less predictable and career prospects grow more uncertain, other countries—including strategic competitors like China—are actively recruiting U.S.-based researchers with generous funding packages and long-term research opportunities, intensifying global competition for scientific talent. What policies can strengthen the U.S. research ecosystem, improve researcher retention, and ensure that the United States remains the world’s leading destination for scientific research?

Join ITIF for an expert panel discussion on the growing challenge of retaining scientific talent in the United States. Panelists will examine whether recent departures signal the beginning of a broader trend, what factors are driving scientists to leave, and which policies can help the United States retain top researchers and bolster innovation and economic competitiveness.

Questions for the speakers? Ask on Slido.