For over 75 years, the United States has been viewed as a global leader in research and higher education. Today, that role is facing new challenges. Changes in funding structures, shifting priorities in public discourse, and uncertainty about long-term support for academic institutions have created a complex environment. Some universities have come under pressure in connection with protests and societal debates, which in turn are bringing unprecedented federal scrutiny to academia. This scrutiny has impacted federal research grants, making it harder for some researchers to secure grants or hire new staff. While many of these issues are likely to be resolved over time, they have already prompted concerns about the future of science in the U.S.

At the same time, it’s important to note that the strength of the U.S. academic system lies in its diversity and resilience. Many institutions continue to thrive and invest in ambitious research efforts. On February 25, I signed a contract to start as a professor in the Department of Chemistry at Rice University in Houston, Texas. This opportunity emerged well before recent uncertainties — and, despite the current challenges, I am excited to become part of the academic community in the U.S soon. I will leave my position in Sweden on July 1.

When I earned my PhD in the 1990s, it was common practice to go to the U.S. for a postdoc if you wanted to continue in research. The only question was where in the U.S. to go. I spent two years at Caltech in California, where I discovered what an academic career entailed and became inspired to pursue it. I then secured a tenure-track position at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, where I quickly earned tenure and had my first child. Later, I was recruited to Rice University in Houston (so yes, I’ve been there before, though not in the same department), and during that time I had my second child. With two young children, we decided — after 12 years in the U.S. — to return to Sweden, primarily to give them a Swedish upbringing and to be closer to our aging parents. I was a professor at Umeå University for seven years before spending nearly ten years at Chalmers University of Technology.

As you can tell, I’ve changed universities several times during my career. Starting over and rebuilding your research program is challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Every time I changed environments, I gained new inspiration, new ideas, new colleagues — in short, each move gave me a surge of energy that pushed my research forward.

I believe I was mentally prepared when Rice University asked if I was interested. First, I had recently realized that I am now quite "free" to do what I want. My parents have passed away, and my daughters are growing up and studying — or about to start studying — at universities in different parts of Sweden. Second, I was at a professional crossroads after stepping away from a university leadership role. That experience, although important, had left me looking for a new sense of direction.

Rice University wants me to build my own research program and help establish a larger center that brings together scientists focused on dementia research. Houston has many renowned hospitals and research institutes, offering excellent opportunities for medical collaborations. With my start-up package, I will be able to recruit a team of over ten people and equip a large lab with all the necessary research equipment. Notably, the state of Texas allocates significant funding for basic research. Part of my start-up package comes from the state's investment in basic cancer research. Next year, Texas is expected to announce substantial funding opportunities for neurodegenerative disease research.

It’s important to recognize that the current situation affects U.S. institutions and researchers differently — and many continue to move forward with important research. However, international media often focuses solely on the most extreme cases and lacks perspective on the wide range of experiences within the U.S. academic landscape. A more nuanced view reveals both resilience and complexity - hallmarks of a system that continues to evolve under pressure.

I owe much of my scientific development to American institutions, funders, and colleagues. My time in the U.S. not only shaped my academic career but also who I am as a person — it was where my children were born and partly grew up. I feel a strong responsibility to contribute positively to the U.S. academic landscape. This new position gives me the opportunity to focus — more than I could in Sweden — on what I love most: doing research, collaborating, and mentoring and inspiring young scientists. I am also committed to promoting academic freedom, equity, and inclusion — values that remain essential to the advancement of science. Those who know me well know that I don’t shy away from challenges. Together with other scientists and through the professional organizations I’m active in, such as the Biophysical Society, I will do my part to support the role of science in society.

“When America sneezes, the world catches a cold” — this saying captures how interconnected the global scientific community is with developments in the U.S. What happens in one country can quickly ripple across borders. That’s why it’s important for people everywhere to support free and independent research. While some countries may benefit in the short term by attracting talent from the U.S., the entire world loses if the U.S. academic system falters. I am determined to make a difference.