Making Europe a magnet for researchers: Ursula von der Leyen launches ‘Choose Europe for Science’ initiative

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented the new European research initiative ‘Choose Europe for Science’ at the Sorbonne in Paris. The aim is to position Europe as an attractive research location worldwide and to secure scientific excellence and technological innovation in the long term.

Freedom of research as a European brand

In her keynote speech, von der Leyen announced a new law to strengthen the European Research Area (ERA). This will enshrine the freedom of science and research in law. Europe is fully committed to scientific openness and the international exchange of knowledge. The free flow of knowledge, data, talent and capital will be specifically promoted – in line with the single market.

500 million euros for international research excellence

As part of ‘Choose Europe’, the EU Commission is planning a new funding package worth €500 million euros for the years 2025 to 2027. It is designed to attract top researchers from Europe and around the world. It includes new ‘super grants’ over seven years, to be awarded by the European Research Council (ERC). Young researchers will also benefit from higher salaries and longer contracts under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie programme.

Accelerating innovation: first European Innovation Act

To improve the transfer of research results into marketable innovations, the EU will present a first European Innovation Act and a comprehensive start-up and scale-up strategy. These measures aim to remove regulatory barriers and facilitate access to venture capital for innovative companies.

Target: 3 percent of GDP for research and development

In the long term, the Commission, together with the Member States, aims to invest three percent of Europe‘s gross domestic product (GDP) in research and development (R&D) by 2030. The forthcoming multiannual financial framework will also contain ambitious proposals for funding research, innovation and technology promotion.

Europe eases access for international researchers

The EU wants to make it much easier for researchers to enter and stay in the EU. Europe already offers access to thousands of job vacancies, visa support and career advice via a singlr platform. In the future, universities, research institutions and companies will receive even better support to attract and retain international talent.

The strategic importance of science for Europe's future

Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné (Industrial Strategy), Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu (Social Rights) and Commissioner Ekaterina Zakharieva (Research & Innovation) also attended the conference. Together, they underlined the importance of research and innovation for Europe's competitiveness and sustainable growth.