Data Sources and Citation Metrics
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Economics and Finance Scientists in Italy Ranking is primarily based on data gathered from OpenAlex and CrossRef, along with multiple other reputable bibliometric data sources. Bibliometric data used to devise the citation-based metrics underpinning the ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. A scientist’s position within the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), which exclusively accounts for papers and citation metrics related to the specific discipline under examination—Economics and Finance in this case.
Scope of Research and Inclusion Criteria
A total of 279,971 scientist profiles drawn from diverse bibliometric databases were analyzed across all disciplines, from which 101 scientists specializing in Economics and Finance were identified. To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, a scientist’s D-index had to be at least 30, with the majority of their tier publications situated within the domain of Economics and Finance. Additionally, scientists’ awards and notable achievements in the field were considered as supplementary factors in the evaluation.
The threshold for the D-index is adjusted in increments of 10 based on the estimated total number of scholars within each discipline, ensuring consistent inclusion of the top 1% of leading researchers. Furthermore, the difference between a scientist’s overall H-index and their D-index is kept to 30% or less, guaranteeing a close alignment between general impact and discipline-specific contributions.
Verification and Validation Practices
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot provide an absolute evaluation of a scholar’s research output, all scientist profiles included in the ranking underwent meticulous manual verification. Researchers behind this ranking cross-correlated profiles against publications from a wide range of trustworthy academic journals, conference proceedings, and other respected scholarly sources.
While the volume of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence a researcher’s rank position, it serves as a valuable secondary signal of their tangible contributions to scientific advancement within Economics and Finance.
The ranking positions are ultimately established using each researcher's D-index derived from data aggregated by OpenAlex and CrossRef—two of the most prominent and trusted bibliometric databases accessible to the research community. For a detailed explanation of the methods involved, please refer to our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
At Research.com, our mission is to inspire researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to stay informed about the directions pursued by leading experts. We endeavor to provide the global scientific community with transparent, accurate, and comprehensive insights about who the top researchers are within specific fields of study, in various countries, and within individual research institutions.
This ranking reflects our commitment to delivering rigorously validated and carefully curated information that supports informed decision-making, collaboration, and recognition across the academic ecosystem.
