Data from Times Higher Education’s Unijobs shows overseas job applications from U.S.-based higher‑education staff rose 21% in 2025, with the UK receiving 24% more applications and Hong Kong, Ireland and Australia also drawing substantial interest. Analysts attribute the trend to political pressures on U.S. campuses — including efforts to dismantle DEI programs and perceived political interference — and cuts to federal research funding that undermine job stability. Researchers and university leaders warned this could accelerate talent migration and create long‑term recruitment challenges for U.S. institutions, particularly in research‑intensive fields. Observers say recipient systems should prepare for inbound talent by clarifying hiring pathways and credential recognition while U.S. campuses assess retention strategies.