Bibliometric data for calculating the citation-based metrics used in this ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. The position of each scientist within the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), which selectively measures impact by including only publications and citation metrics within the specific discipline of Immunology. This approach ensures an evaluation that reflects expertise and influence strictly relevant to the examined field.
Scope of Research and Eligibility Criteria
The ranking was compiled after examining 187,135 scientist profiles obtained from diverse bibliometric data sources covering all disciplines. Specifically, for Immunology, 1,023 scientists were identified and reviewed. To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, a scientist must hold a D-index of at least 40, ensuring that only consistently impactful researchers are considered. Furthermore, a majority of the scientist’s tier publications must be classified within the area of Immunology, confirming their specialization and contribution to the discipline. Awards and other significant achievements in Immunology were also factored as qualitative considerations.
The threshold for the D-index is adaptable and is set in increments of 10 relative to the estimated total number of scholars within each discipline, thereby ensuring that approximately the top 1% of leading experts are recognized. Additionally, a rigorous filter is applied such that the proximity between a scientist’s general H-index and their discipline-specific D-index must be 30% or less to confirm a clear focus on their primary field.
Verification and Methodological Rigor
The research team behind this ranking is acutely aware that raw bibliometric data alone cannot serve as an absolute measure of scientific output or quality. Accordingly, all scientist profiles were manually verified and cross-correlated against their publication records in a wide array of trustworthy sources to reduce errors and misattributions.
While the number of publications in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence a researcher’s position in the Research.com ranking, it serves as a valuable secondary signal of a scientist’s contribution to the field of Immunology. Researchers’ ranking positions are fundamentally established based on their D-index, which is calculated from data aggregated primarily through OpenAlex and CrossRef.
To explore the detailed methodology behind this ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Purpose
At Research.com, our mission is to motivate researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers worldwide to gain clear insights into where leading experts in various disciplines are focusing their efforts. We endeavor to provide the entire scientific community with transparent and trusted tools to identify the leading experts in specific areas of study, across countries, and within research institutions.
By delivering meticulously curated rankings built upon rigorous, multi-faceted data analysis and verification, we seek to enhance recognition of scientific excellence and foster collaboration and informed decision-making across academia, industry, and government bodies.
