It’s Time to “De-Americanize” Global Science, argues Researcher João Conde

An opinion piece in the journal Nature World View, written by João Conde (researcher at NOVA Medical School and the CHRC), argues that the international scientific system must reduce its dependence on the United States and promote a more equitable and resilient model for global science.

A Call for Change

João Conde argues that the current global scientific ecosystem relies disproportionately on American funding, governance, and regulatory power. This concentration, he warns, is an increasing risk in the face of political turmoil, economic crises, or strategic shifts in the US. Rather than diminishing the American role in science, the proposal seeks to rebalance the global system and reinforce its sustainability.

Concrete Proposals

The author outlines four key measures for this transformation:

• Distribute research funding more equitably among countries.
• Share decision-making and ethical oversight at an international level.
• Develop globally interoperable data infrastructures.
• Provide emergency support to researchers at political or institutional risk.

Why This Debate Matters

João Conde believes the present moment is ideal for rethinking how science is funded, regulated, and sustained globally—not only to tackle immediate challenges but to ensure the long-term health of the international research system.

The latest edition of Nature, featuring Conde’s article, is now available to read: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-02215-4