For this edition, all bibliometric data used to calculate citation metrics were collected on January 12, 2026. This ensures that the ranking reflects the most recent and comprehensive scholarly outputs available at the time of analysis. A scientist’s position in the ranking is determined by their Discipline H-index, or D-index, which is a refined metric incorporating only those papers and citations directly attributable to the examined discipline — Economics and Finance in this case — thereby providing a focused and discipline-specific measure of research impact.
Scope of Research and Qualification Criteria
The scope of this ranking encompasses a comprehensive examination of 279,971 scientist profiles identified across numerous bibliometric databases spanning all disciplines. Within this expansive dataset, a subset of 138 scientists specializing in Economics and Finance was specifically analyzed.
To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, a researcher must have a D-index of at least 30, ensuring that only those with a substantively impactful publication record are considered. Moreover, the majority of their tier publications must belong to Economics and Finance, guaranteeing disciplinary relevance. Additionally, consideration was given to individual awards and achievements specifically related to Economics and Finance to further validate their standing within the field.
The threshold for the D-index is dynamically adjusted in increments of 10 according to the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline. This adaptive thresholding is designed to encompass at least the top 1% of leading researchers for each specific area, thus maintaining a rigorous standard of excellence. Furthermore, there is a strict requirement that the difference between a scientist’s general H-index and their D-index remains within 30%, ensuring that their research impact is closely aligned to the field under review.
Verification and Methodological Rigor
Understanding the limitations inherent in relying solely on raw bibliometric data, the Research.com team implemented an extensive manual verification process. Each scientist profile was cross-checked against publications indexed across a broad spectrum of reputable databases and sources. This additional layer of scrutiny ensures that profiles are accurate, and that the recognition of scholars’ contributions is valid and justifiable.
While the number of papers published in prestigious journals and conferences is not a direct factor influencing the ranking position, it is recognized as an important secondary indicator of a researcher’s influence and contribution to the discipline.
The final ranking is derived using the D-index compiled from bibliometric information available via OpenAlex and CrossRef — the most prominent, widely respected, and openly accessible databases utilized by the research community globally. For further detailed insight into the methodology underpinning this ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision Behind the Ranking
At Research.com, our mission is to inspire researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to take a closer look at the trajectories of leading experts within their fields. By providing transparent, rigorous, and comprehensive rankings, we aim to facilitate awareness within the global scientific community about who the foremost authorities are in specific disciplines, countries, and institutions.
This ranking initiative is grounded in the belief that recognizing and showcasing top scholars can foster collaboration, inform strategic decisions, and ultimately propel scientific progress across Economics and Finance and beyond.
