The position of each scientist within the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a refined bibliometric metric that includes only publications and citation metrics relevant to the specific discipline under examination—in this case, Ecology and Evolution. This approach ensures that the ranking reflects scholarly impact within the targeted field rather than generalized academic influence.
Scope of Research and Eligibility Criteria
This ranking was developed by examining a total of 279,971 scientist profiles identified from various bibliometric data sources, encompassing all academic disciplines. Within the specific domain of Ecology and Evolution, 6,000 scientists were analyzed to identify leading experts. To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, candidates were required to have a minimum D-index of 30, and a majority of their high-impact publications needed to be in the area of Ecology and Evolution.
Beyond bibliometric thresholds, scientists’ awards and recognized achievements in Ecology and Evolution were incorporated as additional factors supporting their inclusion. The D-index eligibility threshold for top researchers is calibrated in increments of 10 according to the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline. This method ensures that the top 1% of leading scholars are incorporated into the list. Furthermore, there is a strict proximity criterion whereby the difference between a researcher’s general H-index and their D-index must be 30% or less, safeguarding the disciplinary focus of the ranking.
Additional Verification Practices
Recognizing the limitations of raw bibliometric data as an absolute measure of scholarly output, the Research.com team conducted meticulous manual verification of all scientist profiles. Each profile was cross-correlated against publications indexed in a broad range of trustworthy academic sources to confirm accuracy and relevance. Although the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence a researcher’s ranking position, it remains a valuable secondary indicator of a scientist’s contribution to their specific field.
The central determinant of ranking placement remains the D-index derived from data collected via OpenAlex and CrossRef. These databases, known for their rigorous curation and extensive coverage, underpin the credibility and precision of the ranking.
For a detailed explanation of the methodology employed, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
At Research.com, our mission is to motivate researchers, corporations, and policymakers worldwide to closely examine the trajectories of leading scientific experts. We strive to provide an authoritative resource that enables the global scientific community to identify and connect with leading experts across specific study areas, geographic regions, and research institutions. This ranking is a product of careful and rigorous work aimed at promoting transparency and excellence in scientific research, ultimately fostering collaboration, innovation, and informed decision-making.
