The scientific and technological competitiveness of the United States has been traditionally fueled by its ability to attract the "best and the brightest" minds from other nations. This diaspora, representing a highly skilled work force, is considered “brain drain” for the home country. However, expatriates have the potential to build and strengthen capacity in their countries of origin despite being displaced and without permanently returning to their native lands. Recent advances in information technology and communications catalyze such global flow of scientific knowledge through diasporas into their native communities. This session explores ways in which expatriates in science and technology (S&T) have transformed brain drain into a gain for their countries of origin. Through the experiences of scientists, entrepreneurs, and policy-makers, the symposium presents two aspects of expatriate contribution to S&T infrastructure and competence in their native regions: the remarkable efforts of individuals who have developed thoughtful and effective projects, and the commitments by organizations and governments to engage their scientific diasporas. The panelists will discuss barriers, rewards, initiatives, and policies that can influence the outcome of such undertakings. The goal of the session is to present diverse and innovative avenues for scientists to build and strengthen S&T capacity in their countries of origin while being a vital part of the U.S. work force.