In recent years, the sustainability and retention of scientific talent have become key issues in the scientific development of nations. A national roadmap for sustaining scientific talent requires a comprehensive, forward-looking, non-critical, and ethically grounded perspective—one that emphasizes creating attractiveness, opportunity, and motivation for scientific activity within the country.
First, establishing a sustainable supportive ecosystem is fundamental. Building scientific networks, national and reference laboratories, and innovation centers can create a dynamic environment for growth, creativity, and the flourishing of talent. Second, strengthening professional and career pathways for researchers is essential, including long-term research opportunities, support for interdisciplinary projects, and the establishment of job security across academic and industrial sectors. Third, expanding international collaboration can enhance the attractiveness of staying in the country. Short-term exchange programs, joint research collaborations, and access to global scientific infrastructure enable academic growth while preserving researchers’ ties with their home country. Fourth, recognition and visibility are important motivational factors; showcasing successful role models, organizing scientific festivals, fostering a culture of appreciation for research achievements, strengthening social respect, and ensuring transparent, merit-based promotion systems all reinforce the social standing of knowledge.
Finally, supporting the quality of life of researchers including welfare services, housing support packages, supplemental insurance, education for their children, and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in retention. Likewise, facilitating academic pathways for talented students and enabling their entry into desired fields of study without entrance examinations can strengthen the foundations for developing and sustaining scientific talent.
Such a roadmap, by cultivating hope, opportunity, and a shared scientific and social identity, can pave the way for the long-term sustainability of talent and enhance job security and forward-looking capacity within the scientific community.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Ali A. Moosavi- Movahedi
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Editor-in-Chief