A scientist’s position in the ranking is determined exclusively by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a discipline-specific metric. The D-index includes only publications and citation metrics within the examined field, ensuring that rankings fairly reflect impact and productivity specifically in Plant Science and Agronomy.
Scope of Research and Inclusion Criteria
This ranking evaluates a total of 279,971 scientist profiles identified across various bibliometric databases spanning all scientific disciplines. Within this pool, 659 scientists specializing specifically in Plant Science and Agronomy were examined. To qualify for the ranking, two principal criteria were applied:
- A scholar must have a D-index of at least 30.
- The majority of their top-tier publications must be situated within the domain of Plant Science and Agronomy.
In addition, awards and achievements pertinent to the field of Plant Science and Agronomy were also taken into consideration to complement the bibliometric evaluation.
The D-index threshold for inclusion adapts in increments of 10 depending on the total estimated number of scholars within each discipline, ensuring that the top 1% of leading experts are recognized. Moreover, to maintain field relevance, a proximity of 30% or less between a scientist’s general H-index and their discipline-specific D-index is required.
Verification and Quality Assurance
Recognizing the limitations of raw bibliometric data as an absolute measure of scholarly output, the ranking process incorporates rigorous manual verification of all scientist profiles. These profiles were cross-correlated against publications indexed in a broad array of trusted sources to authenticate the accuracy and relevance of their scholarly contributions.
Although not a direct factor influencing the ranking position, the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings serves as a valuable secondary indicator of each scientist’s impact within the discipline.
Positions are ultimately established based on the D-index compiled from data obtained through OpenAlex and CrossRef—the two most prominent and widely respected bibliometric databases accessible to the global research community.
For a comprehensive overview of the methodology employed, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission Behind the Ranking
The creation of this ranking reflects Research.com’s commitment to motivating researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to monitor the direction of leading scientific experts. We aim to provide a transparent and reliable resource for the entire scientific community to readily identify the foremost authorities within specific disciplines, countries, or research institutions.
Through meticulous data collection, verification, and thoughtful metric design, we strive to elevate the visibility of exemplary scientific contributions and foster informed decision-making in research strategy, funding, and collaboration.
