Many scientists are not happy after a slim majority of Britons voted to leave the European Union June 23. In a Washington Post blog post about scientists’ concerns, three key fears that came up included:
- A possible brain drain. Scientists say that leaving the EU means it will be much harder to attract the most talented researchers to universities in the UK.
- Funding shortages. In the past, the EU has been a big supporter of UK science.
- Loss of diversity in the UK scientific community. As part of the EU, there was a constant exchange of scientists and ideas between Britain and European countries. Those collaborations with scientists of a variety of backgrounds may now be more difficult with Britain voting to leave the EU.