Data Sources and Methodology
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Ecology and Evolution Scientists in Monaco Ranking is primarily based on comprehensive bibliometric data collected from OpenAlex and CrossRef, complemented by multiple additional reputable data sources. The bibliometric data used to devise the citation-based metrics for this ranking were gathered on 2026-01-12, ensuring a current and robust dataset. The position of each scientist within the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a refined bibliometric indicator that considers only those publications and citation metrics pertinent to the examined discipline of Ecology and Evolution.
Scope of Research and Qualification Criteria
To construct the ranking, 279,971 scientist profiles spanning all disciplines were examined using a variety of bibliometric data sources. Among them, 1,234 scientists specializing in Ecology and Evolution were closely analyzed. Qualification for inclusion required a minimum D-index of 30, coupled with a majority of a scientist’s tier publications being directly related to Ecology and Evolution. In addition to bibliometric measures, scientists’ awards and achievements specifically within the field were taken into consideration.
The threshold for a qualifying D-index is set dynamically with increments of 10 based on the estimated total number of scholars within each discipline. This approach ensures that the top 1% of leading experts are captured in the ranking across diverse fields. Furthermore, to maintain disciplinary relevance, a proximity threshold is enforced whereby the difference between a scientist’s general H-index and their D-index must not exceed 30%.
Verification and Validation Practices
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot fully represent a scholar’s impact, the Research.com team has committed to meticulous manual verification of all included scientist profiles. Each profile was cross-correlated against publications listed in a broad range of authoritative, trustworthy sources to authenticate the data. While not factored directly into the ranking position, the number of papers published in prominent journals and high-impact conference proceedings serves as a valuable secondary indicator of a scientist’s contribution to the field.
The ranking positions are ultimately based on each researcher’s D-index derived from OpenAlex and CrossRef data — the most comprehensive and respected bibliometric databases available to the research community. For a detailed overview of the full methodology employed, readers are encouraged to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Vision and Purpose
At Research.com, our mission extends beyond mere ranking compilation. We aim to motivate researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to monitor the trajectories and outputs of leading experts. By providing transparent, data-driven insights, we create a reliable platform where the scientific community, institutions, and other stakeholders can identify and engage with top-tier specialists in specific areas of study, across countries, and within research organizations. The thorough and rigorous process behind this ranking reflects our commitment to integrity, accuracy, and meaningful contribution to the advancement of ecological and evolutionary sciences.
