Federal effort taps 64 leading researchers, many of them from the U.S.

By the Editorial Team · Friday, August 28, 2026

The Canadian government has recruited 64 prominent researchers, including several from the U.S., to strengthen the nation’s scientific community amid deteriorating trade relations with the United States. This initiative aims to enhance Canada’s innovation capacity and economic resilience by attracting global talent in response to geopolitical tensions and challenges in the American research environment.

The Canadian government announced the recruitment of 64 leading researchers and scholars, many from the United States, as part of a broader effort to bolster the country’s scientific community. The initiative was revealed by Industry Minister Mélanie Joly on Thursday, shortly after trade negotiations between Canada and the United States broke down, leading to escalating tensions between the two nations.

Among the high-profile recruits is Phillip Zamore, a biomedical scientist who previously chaired the RNA Therapeutics Institute at the University of Massachusetts. Zamore cited multiple factors influencing his decision to relocate to Canada, including dissatisfaction with the current U.S. administration’s approach to science. He described feeling compelled to leave due to significant federal funding cuts, legal challenges against top American universities, tightened visa restrictions for international students, and a perceived decline in the prioritization of scientific research at the national level.

“I’ve pretty much lost my country,” Zamore said, reflecting on the changes he perceives under the Trump administration. He emphasized the importance of science in a functioning democracy and expressed concern that these values are no longer upheld federally in the United States. While considering several countries—including Japan and various European nations—Zamore ultimately accepted an offer from McGill University, attracted in large part by a Canadian government initiative he described as “truthfully, took my breath away.”

Canada’s recruitment campaign is viewed as a strategic move to enhance the country’s research capabilities amid mounting geopolitical challenges and trade disruptions with the United States. By attracting top international talent, Canada aims to strengthen its innovation ecosystem and reaffirm its commitment to science and technology.

This announcement comes amid heightened economic friction with the United States following the collapse of trade talks, which has prompted concerns about the impact on various sectors in Canada. The government’s engagement of high-caliber researchers signals an intent to diversify and fortify its scientific landscape in direct response to shifting global dynamics.

The full roster of the 64 researchers includes experts across multiple disciplines, underscoring Canada’s emphasis on cross-sector innovation. Industry officials indicate that this initiative is part of a broader strategic plan to sustain economic growth and competitiveness through investment in human capital and scientific excellence.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.