Planning researcher mobility in the United-States

Introduction: The journey towards an academic career for young practitioners requires researcher mobility, preferably in foreign country. This mobility, necessary to access positions as a professor, consists of a supervised research experience aimed at acquiring new skills in one's research field. This article describes the different steps in planning researcher mobility Introduction: The journey towards an academic career for young practitioners requires researcher mobility, preferably in foreign country. This mobility, necessary to access positions as a professor, consists of a supervised research experience in the United States (US). Method: It highlights regulatory aspects, including the conditions for the validity of researcher mobility, such as its duration, location, and exercise modalities. It also outlines the roles of various involved entities: The National council of universities, the hospital, universities (both home and host institutions in the US), and the American embassy. Result: The optimal time to undertake this mobility must be carefully chosen to reconcile the requirements of academic and clinical paths, as well as family commitments. Finding a welcoming research laboratory is a crucial step, which can be facilitated by existing collaborations between French and international research teams. Opportunities for funding, from host institutions, official organizations, foundations, associations, scientific societies, and private companies, must be explored attentively, and scholarship applications should be care- fully prepared and submitted within the deadlines. Administrative procedures for obtaining the J-1 visa, necessary for researcher mobility in the US, are complex and require meticulous planning. These include obtaining the DS-2019, paying the SEVIS fee, completing the DS-160 form, scheduling an embassy appointment, and attending the embassy interview. Special cases, such as mobility with a partner or children, require particular attention. Conclusion: Researcher mobility in the United States is an enriching experience but requires meticulous preparation in collaboration with local services, research laboratories, host universities, as well as in the context of administrative procedures for obtaining the visa.