PAN already has six foreign outposts—in Paris, Vienna, Rome, Berlin, Brussels, and Kyiv—serving as “scientific embassies” to showcase Polish science and foster international partnerships. Vice President Mirosława Ostrowska called the U.S. “a leading force in research,” warranting a physical presence there.
President Marek Konarzewski noted the academy will seek support from Polish ministries, including education and foreign affairs, aiming for prime ministerial backing. While acknowledging high costs, he sees the station as a strategic investment, citing the United States’ prominence in dual-use technologies and energy research.
Konarzewski, formerly with the Foreign Ministry, said the station would be “part of scientific diplomacy,” enabling direct discussions and collaborations that go beyond online exchanges. PAN is considering an East Coast site (e.g., Boston) or California.
The idea aligns with calls from historian Norman Davies to raise Poland’s global visibility. Observers point to successful Ukrainian diaspora initiatives in North America as examples of building academic infrastructure abroad.
Though no launch date has been confirmed, PAN officials say they are “ready to take concrete steps” if government funds become available.
(jh)
Source: PAP