Cambridge University is engaging with top American academics amid growing tensions between the Trump administration and elite US universities like Harvard. Sources told The Times that informal talks are underway with researchers interested in relocating to the UK for a more stable academic environment.
While Cambridge has not confirmed any active recruitment strategy, a university spokesperson said, “Our approach has not changed: we seek to attract the best talent from the UK and around the world.”
The opportunity comes as President Trump intensifies pressure on leading US institutions, accusing Harvard and others of failing to address antisemitism on campus. The administration is also pushing for greater control over staff hiring, student admissions, and course content at top universities. Several institutions, including Columbia University, have reportedly agreed to some of the government's conditions in exchange for the restoration of federal funding.
Harvard, with an endowment of nearly $50 billion, has pushed back. But concerns are growing within the academic community. One US-based biochemist said many researchers have been approached by European institutions offering financial incentives to relocate. “I would go in a heartbeat if I could convince my family it was in our best interest,” the scientist said.
The European Union is offering additional grants, sometimes as high as €1 million, to encourage junior scientists and postdoctoral researchers to move from the US. The UK and EU are positioning themselves as attractive alternatives for researchers affected by US policy changes.
In a separate development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for an investigation into Harvard’s alleged involvement with sanctioned Chinese officials during a recent conference.
According to the latest QS World University Rankings, Harvard is placed fourth globally, with Cambridge close behind at fifth. Imperial College London and Oxford ranked second and third, respectively, while the Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT) topped the list.
Cambridge’s move to attract US talent could increase research activity in the UK and add to its global competitiveness, especially as academic freedom and funding concerns grow across the Atlantic.
While Cambridge has not confirmed any active recruitment strategy, a university spokesperson said, “Our approach has not changed: we seek to attract the best talent from the UK and around the world.”
The opportunity comes as President Trump intensifies pressure on leading US institutions, accusing Harvard and others of failing to address antisemitism on campus. The administration is also pushing for greater control over staff hiring, student admissions, and course content at top universities. Several institutions, including Columbia University, have reportedly agreed to some of the government's conditions in exchange for the restoration of federal funding.
Harvard, with an endowment of nearly $50 billion, has pushed back. But concerns are growing within the academic community. One US-based biochemist said many researchers have been approached by European institutions offering financial incentives to relocate. “I would go in a heartbeat if I could convince my family it was in our best interest,” the scientist said.
The European Union is offering additional grants, sometimes as high as €1 million, to encourage junior scientists and postdoctoral researchers to move from the US. The UK and EU are positioning themselves as attractive alternatives for researchers affected by US policy changes.
In a separate development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for an investigation into Harvard’s alleged involvement with sanctioned Chinese officials during a recent conference.
According to the latest QS World University Rankings, Harvard is placed fourth globally, with Cambridge close behind at fifth. Imperial College London and Oxford ranked second and third, respectively, while the Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT) topped the list.
Cambridge’s move to attract US talent could increase research activity in the UK and add to its global competitiveness, especially as academic freedom and funding concerns grow across the Atlantic.
You may also like
Giant jockey explains why he's turning professional despite 6ft'5 stature
Does Robert die in Emmerdale? Ryan Hawley character's fate sealed in John twist
Top Wimbledon seed sells smashed racket for outrageous fee as he clears out wardrobe
Of cats and caught tongues: India should find self-interest, if not moral courage, to speak out against aggression
Niti Aayog lays out data quality road map to stop leakages, increase efficiency
