Bringing Back Greek Scholars

For years, Greece has watched native bright academic minds build successful careers abroad, leaving a gap in its universities and research institutions. Between 2010 and 2016 alone, more than 427,000 people left Greece, many highly educated. With the country recovering from the financial crisis and pushing forward with significant reforms (like Law 5094 of 2024, which allows non-state universities for the first time), there’s a real opportunity to bring back some lost talent. But the big question remains: Do Greek academics want to return? And if so, what would it take to convince them?

To find out, the Deon Policy Institute conducted the largest-ever survey of Greek academics working in universities abroad. Out of a sampling frame of 3,879 academics from 84 universities across 15 countries, we received 494 responses from 106 universities in 19 countries. That alone sends a clear message: Greek scholars are interested in this conversation, and many are open to returning.

What We Learned:

• There’s interest, but significant changes are needed: 59% of respondents said they would consider working in Greece in the next five years, meaning at least 200 academics are considering the move. But they’re clear about what needs to change: better salaries, more research funding, and tangible improvements in governance.

• Younger academics are the key: Lecturers (80%) and postdoctoral researchers (66%) are the most willing to return, especially if they’re offered full-time faculty positions (52%) with fair pay.

• Interest is most substantial in certain regions: Academics in Canada (72%) and Australia (67%) showed the most enthusiasm—despite many having never lived or studied in Greece—suggesting that cultural and family ties still play a significant role in decision-making.

• Salaries and research funding matter: While some would accept Greece’s current salary levels (32% would take €2,250 per month), a significant portion (36%) expects at least €7,500 per month, especially those from the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

• Fairness and transparency are essential: Merit-based hiring, clearer job postings, and more grant opportunities are among the top priorities for those considering returning.

Key takeaway

Greece has a real opportunity to attract academic talent back, but only if the right conditions are in place. The high response rate alone shows that this is a conversation worth having. If Greece can offer competitive salaries, improve research funding, and create a more transparent academic system, it could turn brain drain into brain regain and position itself as a global leader in higher education.