US Agent Enforcement Controversy and the Return Wave of Chinese-American Scientists

A recent video of U.S. law enforcement officers in action has sparked widespread attention. In harsh weather below freezing, agents used force in front of a child, and later it was found that the verification was incorrect but no apology was made, and the individual was released immediately. This incident has become a window into observing the plight of Chinese-American scholars in the U.S.

Frequent ICE Law Enforcement Actions Highlight Increasing Difficulties for Chinese-American Scholars

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have recently conducted frequent enforcement actions against Chinese-American scholars on grounds such as “visa violations” and “failure to report overseas collaborations.” In 2023, a Chinese-American professor at MIT was suddenly searched; although ultimately proven innocent, his project funding was frozen, academic collaborators distanced themselves, and his career was substantially impacted.

The enforcement methods used by agents have raised concerns within the academic community. Even when proven to have committed no violations, the costs faced by Chinese-American scholars have already taken shape—chilling effects on international collaboration, uncertainty about funding sources, and damage to professional reputation. These factors are changing the career choices and life plans of many Chinese-American scholars.

Quantum Physicist You Chenglong Joins University of Science and Technology of China

In January 2026, U.S. quantum physicist You Chenglong announced his return to China to join the University of Science and Technology of China. After earning his Ph.D. in the U.S. in 2019, You Chenglong had been conducting postdoctoral research at Louisiana State University, later promoted to Assistant Research Professor, with a focus on quantum information and topological materials.

This research area happens to be one of the most intense frontiers in U.S.-China technological competition. Strategic fields such as quantum computing and chip design are becoming focal points of rivalry. The flow of top talent often reflects profound changes in the global tech ecosystem.

Factors Behind the Talent Flow Changes in 2025

Data shows that in 2025 alone, at least 17 Chinese-American scientists who obtained tenure or near-tenure positions in the U.S. announced their return to China. Their research spans artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and other strategic industries. The emergence of this phenomenon reflects the combined influence of multiple factors.

Industry insiders observe that among the top scientists and engineers in artificial intelligence research, a significant proportion are of Chinese descent. Their departure and return have had tangible impacts on the talent reserves of U.S. research institutions. Meanwhile, domestic universities and research institutions are increasingly attractive to top talent, offering competitive research conditions and development opportunities.

The frequent enforcement actions by agents have further intensified existing feelings of insecurity. Scholars, when considering career development, need to weigh more uncertainties—including enforcement risks, the complexities of international collaboration, and long-term career prospects. These combined factors are prompting some Chinese-American scientists to reassess their career choices.

Whether law enforcement policies are the direct cause of these talent flow changes still requires further in-depth research. Nonetheless, U.S. research institutions and policymakers need to seriously consider the deeper implications behind this phenomenon.