Data Sources and Ranking Basis
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Materials Science Scientists in Saudi Arabia Ranking is grounded in comprehensive bibliometric data primarily sourced from OpenAlex and CrossRef, supplemented by a diverse array of additional reputable data sources. The citation-based metrics utilized to determine the ranking positions were compiled on January 12, 2026. A scientist's standing in this ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a metric that exclusively considers publications and citation data pertinent to the discipline under review—in this case, Materials Science. This focused approach ensures that the evaluation is discipline-specific, reflecting true impact within the field.
Scope of Research and Qualification Criteria
The ranking evaluates the profiles of 279,971 scientists identified across multiple bibliometric databases spanning all academic disciplines. From this extensive dataset, 72 scientists specializing in Materials Science in Saudi Arabia were examined. To qualify for inclusion, a scientist had to meet a minimum D-index threshold of 40, ensuring that only those with significant impact in Materials Science were considered. Additionally, a majority of their tier publications needed to be directly related to Materials Science. Beyond bibliometric indices, awards and achievements within the field were also factored into the assessment.
The D-index threshold used to identify top researchers is calibrated in increments of 10 relative to the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline, guaranteeing that the top 1% of leading experts are encompassed in the list. Furthermore, the methodology maintains a proximity of no more than 30% difference between a researcher’s overall H-index and their D-index, ensuring coherence between their general impact and discipline-specific influence.
Verification Practices and Methodological Rigor
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot serve as an absolute measure of scholarly output, the Research.com team incorporated additional verification processes to uphold the ranking’s integrity. Each scientist’s profile underwent manual verification and was cross-referenced against publications from a broad spectrum of trusted academic journals, conference proceedings, and data repositories. Although the number of publications in prominent venues does not directly influence a researcher’s position within the ranking, it serves as a valuable secondary signal of a scientist’s contribution and standing within Materials Science.
The final rankings are established based on each researcher’s D-index derived from the bibliometric information gathered primarily from OpenAlex and CrossRef—the two leading, well-established, and accessible databases recognized by the international research community. To explore the full details of the methodology underpinning this ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Research.com aims to inspire researchers, institutional leaders, companies, and policymakers worldwide to explore the trajectories of leading scientists and to provide a transparent platform highlighting who the foremost experts are within specific domains of study, regions, or institutions. By delivering meticulously curated rankings, we strive to foster greater visibility, collaboration, and strategic insight across the global scientific community.
