Returning to Norway too hard for researchers with wanderlust

Norwegian scientists who spend time abroad can find it difficult to resettle in Norway, as the country lacks any support systems for returning researchers, according to the Forskerforum, a website for researchers.

In an article, the Forskerforum describes the struggles of several researchers who worked abroad, sometimes for many years, and struggle to return to Norway. Lack of links with local research networks, different working styles and lack of familiarity with the Norwegian academic system pose obstacles to returning researchers, the article found.

In a comment, the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Council of Norway admitted that there is little support on offer. “We currently have no special agenda or specific measures for Norwegians working abroad to get back to academia,” said Jon Holm, a head of department at the council, in the article.