A disturbing survey conducted in December 2022 among over 1,000 senior Israeli faculty reveals damaged scholarly ties abroad and an increasing desire among researchers to leave the country long-term.

Carried out by the Israel Young Academy, the survey spotlights struggles to maintain vital international research collaborations since the October war broke out. Over half of the respondents reported harm to joint projects, academic visits, student exchanges, and the ability to publish in overseas journals.

If current adverse trends persist amid budget cuts and global tensions, survey leader Prof. Miri Yemini warns a 5-10% decline in academic activity could occur in coming years.

The survey exposes a complex dynamic driving emigration intentions among top scientists – tied to recent domestic policies, polarization, conflict, and enduring factors like career advancement prospects abroad.