A central component of the ranking methodology is the use of the D-index (Discipline H-index), which specifically measures a researcher’s publications and citation impact within the defined discipline of Plant Science and Agronomy. This discipline-focused approach ensures that a scientist’s evaluated output is relevant and representative of their contributions to the field under consideration.
Scope of Research and Qualification Criteria
In establishing this ranking, a total of 279,971 scientist profiles identified from an array of bibliometric sources across various disciplines were analyzed. Among these, 1,000 scientists specializing in Plant Science and Agronomy in Burkina Faso were examined with particular attention.
To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, each scientist must have met a threshold D-index of at least 30 in the discipline, with the majority of their tier-level publications—those considered highly influential—concentrated within Plant Science and Agronomy. Additionally, notable awards and achievements specific to this field were taken into consideration to complement the bibliometric data.
The threshold for considering leading researchers is dynamically adjusted in increments of 10 according to the estimated total number of scholars within each discipline. This calibrated approach guarantees that the ranking represents at least the top 1% of scholars. Moreover, a proximity limit of 30% or less between a scientist’s general H-index and their discipline-specific D-index ensures that the evaluation authentically reflects specialized impact rather than generalized academic activity.
Verification Practices and Ranking Integrity
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot serve as an absolute gauge of scholarly output, the Research.com team implemented rigorous manual verification processes. Each scientist’s profile was carefully cross-referenced against publications indexed in a wide range of reputable sources to validate accuracy and authenticity.
While the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence the ranking position, it remains a valuable secondary indicator of a researcher’s contribution and standing within Plant Science and Agronomy.
The final ranking positions are established exclusively based on the D-index, utilizing data from OpenAlex and CrossRef, which continue to be recognized as the most prominent and trustworthy bibliometric repositories available to the research community.
For a detailed overview of the complete methodology, readers are encouraged to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Through this ranking, Research.com aims to inspire researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers worldwide to closely examine the trajectories and contributions of leading experts in Plant Science and Agronomy. Our mission is to provide a transparent and reliable platform that enables the global scientific community to identify, acknowledge, and engage with top-tier researchers across countries and institutions.
By highlighting excellence and fostering greater awareness of influential scholarship, Research.com seeks to strengthen collaborations, inform strategic decisions, and accelerate advances that address critical challenges within the discipline and beyond.
