Four universities call for measures to attract foreign researchers
The McGill University campus on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, in Montreal. (The Canadian Press/Ryan Remiorz)
Four Quebec universities are calling on the Quebec and Canadian governments to implement measures to attract foreign researchers in a 'global context marked by geopolitical instability.'
Laval University, McGill University, the University of Montreal and the University of Sherbrooke stated in a press release issued on Saturday morning that at a time when 'political and social tensions are weakening the global research ecosystem,' Quebec and Canada have an opportunity to position themselves as a welcoming place for research.
'We are calling on governments to take swift action to seize the opportunities that this context of instability may bring for the benefit of Quebec and Canada. Other countries, particularly in Europe, have already invested significant resources in their universities to attract talent from around the world,' said Eugénie Brouillet, vice-rector of Research, Creation and Innovation at Laval University, in the same document.
The four universities have released proposals that include a Quebec component and a federal component.
The educational institutions suggest first creating new research chairs in strategic sectors, such as artificial intelligence, health and biodiversity, as well as offering targeted scholarships to recruit talented doctoral and postdoctoral students.
The universities also propose supporting early-career researchers and investing in modern research infrastructure.
'Although some proposals target researchers based in the U.S., particularly Quebecers and Canadians pursuing careers there, the initiatives aim to attract talent from around the world, offering them a space of freedom of thought, scientific rigour, innovation and unparalleled creativity to advance their research,' the press release states.
Since taking office, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced significant cuts in various fields of research, including health.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French June 14, 2025.
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