A researcher’s position in this ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a specialized metric that accounts exclusively for papers and citation metrics pertinent to the examined discipline. This discipline-focused approach ensures that evaluation reflects impact within Ecology and Evolution rather than general citation performance.
Scope of Research and Eligibility Criteria
The ranking evaluates a total of 279,971 scientist profiles, identified across a wide array of bibliometric data sources spanning all scientific disciplines. From this extensive dataset, 6,000 scientists specializing in Ecology and Evolution were specifically examined for inclusion in the ranking.
To qualify for the ranking, a scientist must have a minimum D-index of 30 within the field of Ecology and Evolution, and a majority of their top tier publications must be in this area. Additionally, recognized awards and notable achievements in Ecology and Evolution are considered as supplementary factors in the assessment process.
The threshold for the D-index for top researchers is determined incrementally in steps of 10, calibrated proportionally to the total number of scholars estimated in each discipline. This approach guarantees the inclusion of the top 1% of leading scholars within the final list. Furthermore, candidates must have a proximity of no more than 30% between their general H-index and their D-index, ensuring their influence is indeed concentrated in Ecology and Evolution.
Verification Practices and Data Integrity
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data cannot serve as an absolute measure of scholarly output, the Research.com team undertakes meticulous manual verification of all scientist profiles included in the ranking. Profiles are cross-correlated against publications available in a wide range of trustworthy sources to safeguard accuracy and integrity.
While the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings is not a direct factor affecting the ranking position, it remains a valuable secondary indicator of a scientist’s contributions to their specific research domain.
The position in the ranking is ultimately established through each researcher's D-index, calculated using data gathered from OpenAlex and CrossRef, the most prominent and widely recognized bibliometric databases accessible to the research community.
For readers interested in a detailed explanation of the methodology underpinning this ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
The creation of this ranking aligns with Research.com’s broader mission to inspire researchers, academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and policymakers worldwide. By identifying where leading experts are directing their efforts, the ranking provides an important tool that promotes awareness of the foremost scientific contributors across various disciplines, countries, and institutions.
We aim to facilitate informed decision-making and foster constructive collaborations by making knowledge of top-tier scientific excellence readily available to the global scientific community and stakeholders invested in advancing research and innovation.
