All citation-based metrics underpinning the ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. A scientist’s position in the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a refined metric that exclusively considers papers and citations within the evaluated discipline. This focus enhances the specificity and relevance of the ranking to the Materials Science field.
Scope of Research and Eligibility Criteria
An extensive examination was conducted across 279,971 scientist profiles aggregated from diverse bibliometric sources covering all research disciplines. Within this comprehensive dataset, profiles of 2 scientists specializing in Materials Science were specifically identified and analyzed.
To qualify for inclusion in the Materials Science ranking, a scientist’s D-index must be at least 40, establishing a high standard of scholarly impact within the discipline. Additionally, the majority of their tier publications are required to be rooted firmly in Materials Science. Recognition of awards and achievements within the discipline also factored into the evaluation to further affirm the researcher’s impact on the field.
The threshold for the D-index is adapted as increments of 10 based on the total number of scholars estimated per discipline, thereby guaranteeing inclusion of the top 1% of leading researchers. Lastly, to maintain disciplinary focus and avoid discrepancies, a scientist’s D-index must be no more than 30% lower than their overall general H-index.
Verification and Validation Practices
Understanding that raw bibliometric data alone cannot fully capture the scientific value and output of researchers, the Research.com team undertakes meticulous manual verification of every scientist profile included in the ranking. Each profile is cross-correlated against publications indexed across a broad spectrum of authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and integrity.
Although not directly influencing a researcher’s rank, the quantity of papers published in renowned journals and conference proceedings serves as an important secondary indicator of a scientist’s contribution to Materials Science research.
Position in the ranking is exclusively established using the D-index, calculated from data obtained from OpenAlex and CrossRef. These databases represent critical pillars supporting the transparency and reliability of our methodology. For a detailed explanation of the methodology, please refer to our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Research.com is dedicated to motivating researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers worldwide to closely monitor areas of scientific excellence and innovation. By identifying and showcasing the leading experts in specific research domains, countries, and institutions, we aim to facilitate greater collaboration, recognition, and knowledge exchange within the global scientific community.
Through this ranking, we seek to provide an authoritative guide that helps the entire ecosystem understand where pioneering work is being undertaken and who the foremost contributors are in the field of Materials Science in Belarus.