SIGNALQuantum·Jun 23, 2026, 12:00 AMSignal75Long term

Europe as science superpower: what it will take to rival the US and China

Europe as science superpower: what it will take to rival the US and China

Nature, Published online: 23 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01955-1 Amid chaos in US science and geopolitical turmoil, Europe wants to position itself as a research haven — but questions about funding and innovation remain.

Why this matters
Why now

Amid global instability and increasing competition in science and technology, Europe is actively seeking to define its position and secure its future in research.

Why it’s important

This initiative represents a strategic pivot for Europe to reduce its scientific dependency and enhance its geopolitical standing through innovation, impacting global power dynamics in research and development.

What changes

Europe is explicitly articulating a strategy to rival established science superpowers, indicating a potential long-term shift in global research funding and collaboration landscapes.

Winners
  • · European research institutions
  • · European tech sector
  • · EU policymakers
  • · Quantum computing companies
Losers
  • · US science funding dominance
  • · China's unchallenged scientific rise
  • · Brain drain from Europe
  • · Fragmented European research efforts
Second-order effects
Direct

Increased funding and strategic coordination for European scientific research.

Second

Enhanced European competitiveness in critical technology sectors, potentially challenging existing technology leaders.

Third

A multi-polar global scientific ecosystem where Europe acts as an independent innovation hub, attracting global talent and investment.

Editorial confidence: 90 / 100 · Structural impact: 65 / 100
Original report

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