Canada recruits dozens of foreign scientists and researchers, many from U.S.

Canadian universities have welcomed an influx of foreign scientists and researchers, many of whom have transferred from prominent U.S. institutions, as part of a program to attract top academic talent. The recruitment of 64 new researchers is supported by $504 million in federal funding, spread over an eight-year period. Notably, four of the highest-paid Eddie Goldenberg Distinguished Research Chairs, as well as numerous other positions, were previously held by individuals from U.S. institutions such as Harvard and MIT.

Universities across Canada, including the University of British Columbia, McGill, and the University of Toronto, have taken on these new hires. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly, who announced the recruits at UBC in Vancouver, emphasized Canada's commitment to advancing science, stating that the country is "doubling down" on the sector as others are retreating. An additional $37 million will be allocated to recruit 63 "emerging leaders" within the next year.

Joly highlighted that attracting top talent will yield breakthroughs that enhance Canadians' lives and elevate Canada's standing as a global leader in science and innovation. The research chairs are named in honor of Eddie Goldenberg, a former policy adviser and chief of staff to former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, who passed away recently. The government rebranded the positions to pay tribute to Goldenberg's "decades of leadership" that bolstered Canada's research and innovation landscape.