Choose France for Science: launch of the dedicated platform for applications to host international researchers

As the international context creates the conditions for an unprecedented wave of mobility among researchers around the world, France aims to position itself as a host country for those wishing to continue their work in Europe, drawing on the country's research ecosystem and infrastructure.

With the launch of the Choose France for Science platform, operated by the French National Research Agency (ANR) on behalf of the French government as part of France 2030, France is committed to standing up to attacks on academic freedom across the globe. It enables universities, schools, and research organisations to apply for co-funding from the government to host researchers.

France is committed to welcoming international researchers

In keeping with its commitment to academic freedom, scientific mobility, and excellence, France is committed to welcoming international researchers who wish to work in an environment conducive to academic freedom. 

Why choose France? 

• First-class research infrastructure
• Extensive research ecosystem
• Access to the entire European research and innovation ecosystem
• Because there is freedom of research in France
• Because academic freedom in France is central to our values
• Because France has enhanced ambition in terms of research

How does the Choose France for Science platform work? 

The Choose France for Science platform enables universities and research performing organisations to submit projects to host international researchers, especially in the following areas: 

• Health research
• Climate, biodiversity, and sustainable societies
• Digital technology and artificial intelligence
• Space studies
• Agriculture, sustainable food, forests, and natural resources
• Low-carbon energy
• Digital components, systems, and infrastructure

Each selected project can be co-financed up to 50% by the government. The funding must be supplemented by institutions, which can call on local authorities and the private sector for this purpose.

Application assessment criteria

Each application will be assessed according to the following criteria: 

• Quality of the research project presented
• Context of the application
• The researcher's motivation for pursuing their research in France
• Ability to secure funding for the project

Successful applicants commit to submitting a competitive European or international project (e.g. ERC, EIC pathfinder, etc.) within two years of their arrival.

Scientists who have not yet identified a host institution are invited to contact the relevant programme agencies, using the contact details below, in order to receive support in this process.

  Health research

  Climate, biodiversity, and sustainable societies

  Digital technology and artificial intelligence

  Space studies

  Agriculture, sustainable food, forests, and natural resources

  Low-carbon energy

  Digital components, systems, and infrastructure

For more information:

Choose France For Science platform

The requested information in the submission platform is available here for viewing purposes only.

Press release

France 2030 and the ANR

• EURAXESS network
  
  The EURAXESS network, an initiative of the European Commission, provides free support for international researchers, post-docs and PhD students in their mobility within Europe. 53 service centers located throughout France advise them on administrative procedures (visas, housing, social security, children's schooling, career support, etc.). This support helps them settle in and make the most of their stay in France. 
  
  Find the Euraxess center in your area of arrival in France or contact Agathe Kervella, coordinator of the French Euraxess network (agathe.kervella(at)franceuniversites.fr).