Bibliometric data used to compute the citation-based metrics underlying the ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. The key metric employed to determine a scientist’s position in the ranking is the D-index, or Discipline H-index, which exclusively considers papers and citation metrics specific to the examined discipline. This nuanced approach ensures that the rankings accurately reflect discipline-focused scholarly impact rather than general citation counts.
Scope of Research and Qualification Criteria
This ranking is based on an extensive evaluation of 279,971 scientist profiles compiled from a variety of bibliometric data sources across all academic disciplines. Within this broad scope, 1,000 scientists specializing specifically in Business and Management were closely examined.
To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, a scientist’s D-index must be at least 30, demonstrating a significant level of scholarly contribution within Business and Management. Additionally, the majority of their tier publications must be concentrated in this disciplinary area to ensure relevance. Recognition of a scientist’s awards and notable achievements within Business and Management also contributed to the evaluation criteria.
The D-index threshold is dynamically set as increments of ten, depending on the estimated total number of scholars per discipline. This system guarantees that the top 1% of leading researchers in each field are incorporated into the list. Furthermore, to preserve disciplinary focus, a proximity of 30% or less between a scientist’s general H-index and their D-index is required.
Additional Verification Practices
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot comprehensively evaluate scholarly output, the Research.com team exercised thorough and meticulous verification protocols throughout the ranking process. All scientist profiles were manually reviewed and cross-correlated against publications in an array of trustworthy and authoritative sources. This vetting process was designed to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the compiled rankings.
While not a direct factor influencing the ranking position, the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings serves as a valuable secondary signal of a scientist’s contribution and influence within Business and Management research.
The ranking’s positions are determined primarily on each researcher’s D-index, derived from information gathered via OpenAlex, CrossRef, and complementary bibliometric platforms. This structured and transparent methodology solidifies the credibility of the ranking outcomes.
For comprehensive details on the methodology and data protocols involved, readers are encouraged to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Agenda
At Research.com, our mission is to facilitate a global conversation among researchers, academic institutions, companies, and policymakers by illuminating where leading experts are directing their efforts. We strive to provide an authoritative platform that identifies the foremost experts in specific fields of study, within countries, and across research institutions worldwide.
By creating and publishing these rankings, we aim to inspire collaboration, inform strategic research funding decisions, and foster a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of scientific excellence. The meticulous and transparent process underpinning this ranking reflects our commitment to driving progress and excellence across the academic community.
