For this edition, bibliometric data relevant to citation-based metrics were collected on January 12, 2026. These metrics underpin the key measure used in this ranking — the D-index (Discipline H-index) — which evaluates a researcher's impact specifically within the discipline of Physics. The D-index calculation intentionally includes only publications and citation counts pertinent to the examined discipline, offering a focused and fair assessment of each scientist’s contributions in Physics.
Scope of Research and Criteria for Inclusion
The ranking is derived from an extensive examination of 188,172 scientist profiles compiled from a variety of high-quality bibliometric sources covering all scientific disciplines. Within this dataset, 2 scientists specializing in Physics were rigorously evaluated.
Candidates qualify for inclusion in this ranking based on a minimum D-index threshold of 70 in Physics, ensuring that only researchers with significant disciplinary impact are considered. Additionally, a majority of their tier publications must be in the field of Physics, reinforcing the focus on discipline-specific excellence. Recognized awards and notable achievements in Physics were also factored into the selection process to provide a well-rounded evaluation of scholarly stature.
The D-index threshold for top researchers is adaptively set in increments of 10 relative to the total estimated number of scholars within each discipline. This methodology guarantees that the top 1% of leading scientists are systematically incorporated into the list. Furthermore, a proximity criterion ensures that the difference between a scientist’s general H-index and their Physics D-index is 30% or less, thereby confirming disciplinary relevance without undue influence from non-Physics work.
Verification and Validation Procedures
Recognizing the inherent limitations of raw bibliometric data as an absolute measure of academic contribution, our team has conducted meticulous manual verification of every scientist profile included in the ranking. Profiles were cross-correlated with publications indexed in a broad array of trustworthy sources to confirm accuracy and authenticity.
While the number of publications in prestigious journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence the ranking position, it serves as a valuable secondary indicator of a scientist’s contribution to the Physics research community.
Ranking positions are established solely based on the rigorously calculated D-index, derived from the comprehensive data acquired through OpenAlex and CrossRef—leading bibliometric databases well respected within the global research community.
For a detailed understanding of the methodology and verification protocols that underpin this ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com Mission and Vision
At Research.com, our mission is to foster greater understanding and transparency in the global scientific community by identifying and highlighting leading experts across disciplines and geographies. This ranking is intended to motivate researchers, academic institutions, companies, and policymakers worldwide to engage with and support the foremost scientific minds.
By providing clear and credible insights into who the top researchers are in specific fields, such as Physics in Serbia, we aim to facilitate collaboration, inspire innovation, and inform strategic decisions that advance science and societal progress.
