A scientist’s position in this ranking is determined based on their D-index (Discipline H-index). The D-index is a refined bibliometric indicator that considers only publications and citations pertinent to the specific discipline under examination—in this case, Economics and Finance—thereby offering a focused reflection of scholarly influence within the field.
Scope of Research and Criteria for Ranking
The ranking assesses a broad scientific landscape, initially examining 279,971 scientist profiles sourced from various bibliometric databases across all disciplines. Within this extensive dataset, a focused subset of 1,000 scientists specializing in Economics and Finance was identified for detailed evaluation.
To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, several rigorous criteria were applied:
- A minimum D-index of 30, ensuring that only researchers with substantial and impactful contributions in Economics and Finance were considered.
- A majority of the scientist’s tier publications must be categorized under Economics and Finance, reflecting a clear disciplinary focus.
- Recognition of awards and significant achievements specifically within the field of Economics and Finance was incorporated to complement bibliometric metrics.
The threshold for the D-index is dynamically adjusted in increments of 10, relative to the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline. This approach is meticulously calibrated to ensure that approximately the top 1% of leading scholars are captured on the list, maintaining both exclusivity and representativeness. Additionally, a proximity criterion is enforced whereby the difference between a scientist’s overall general H-index and their discipline-specific D-index does not exceed 30%, preserving the discipline-centric relevance of the ranking.
Additional Verification Practices
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot provide an absolute or exhaustive evaluation of scholarly output, the Research.com team employed rigorous supplementary verification methods. All scientist profiles were manually validated and cross-correlated against publications indexed in a wide range of reputable and trustworthy academic sources. This meticulous verification process enhances the reliability and credibility of the ranking.
While factors such as the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings do not directly influence a scientist’s placement in the ranking, these elements serve as valuable secondary indicators of the researcher’s overall contribution to the field.
The final position of each researcher in the ranking is established using their D-index data ascertained from OpenAlex and CrossRef. These databases represent state-of-the-art bibliometric repositories that are rigorously maintained and universally respected within the scientific community.
For detailed insight into the methodology and protocols underpinning this ranking, readers are encouraged to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Objectives
At Research.com, our mission in creating this ranking is to stimulate awareness and engagement among researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide. By illuminating where leading experts in Economics and Finance are directing their efforts, we provide a valuable resource that fosters collaboration, informed decision-making, and recognition within the scientific ecosystem.
Our goal is to offer the global scientific community a transparent and authoritative means to identify top scholars by discipline, country, and institution, thereby enhancing opportunities for innovation and scholarly excellence across borders.
