Data Sources and Metrics
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Ecology and Evolution Scientists in Venezuela Ranking is primarily based on comprehensive bibliometric data aggregated from OpenAlex and CrossRef, along with multiple other reputable data sources. These platforms provide a broad and reliable foundation of scholarly metadata, ensuring that the ranking reflects an accurate measure of scientific impact. The citation-based metrics used to compile this ranking were captured on January 12, 2026, allowing for an up-to-date assessment of research influence.
A scientist’s position within the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index). This metric specifically evaluates only those publications and associated citations pertinent to the discipline of Ecology and Evolution, thereby focusing on research impact within the examined field rather than general scholarly output.
Scope of Research and Eligibility Criteria
The ranking process examined a total of 279,971 scientist profiles identified through a variety of bibliometric sources, spanning all scientific disciplines. Within this universe, 3,000 scientists specializing in Ecology and Evolution were specifically considered. To qualify for inclusion, candidates were required to have a D-index of at least 30. Furthermore, the majority of their tier publications had to demonstrate a clear focus within the domain of Ecology and Evolution.
In addition to bibliometric data, evaluated scientists’ awards and professional achievements relevant to Ecology and Evolution were factored into the overall assessment. The threshold for the D-index was set incrementally by groups of 10, depending on the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline. This calibrated approach ensures the incorporation of the top 1% of leading scholars in the field. To maintain disciplinary relevance, the difference between a scientist's general H-index and their D-index was required to be within 30%, reinforcing the specificity of the discipline-focused evaluation.
Verification and Methodological Rigor
Understanding the limitations inherent to raw bibliometric data, the Research.com team applies rigorous manual verification to all scientist profiles. Each profile is cross-correlated against a wide range of trustworthy publication sources to validate the accuracy and authenticity of the data. This practice safeguards against common errors such as name disambiguation issues or incomplete publication records.
While the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence a researcher’s ranking position, it nevertheless serves as a valuable secondary indicator of a scholar’s contribution to their field. The ranking itself is fundamentally based on the D-index, derived from data curated primarily from OpenAlex and CrossRef — two of the most comprehensive and reputable bibliometric databases accessible to the global research community.
For an in-depth explanation of the ranking methodology, readers are encouraged to consult our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Research.com is dedicated to fostering an informed global scientific community by identifying and showcasing leading experts across disciplines and geographies. Our mission is to inspire researchers, academic institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers to monitor the trajectories of top scholars. By providing transparent and meticulously derived rankings, we enable stakeholders worldwide to recognize who the foremost contributors are in specific areas of study — facilitating collaboration, guiding funding decisions, and shaping strategic initiatives.
The 5th edition of the Best Ecology and Evolution Scientists in Venezuela Ranking embodies this commitment, representing a carefully crafted and credible resource to support the advancement of science and research excellence.