The bibliometric data used to devise the citation-based metrics underlying this ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. A key metric employed in determining a scientist’s position in the ranking is the D-index (Discipline H-index), a discipline-specific variation of the traditional H-index. The D-index exclusively accounts for papers and citations relevant to the examined discipline of Plant Science and Agronomy, thus providing a more focused and representative measure of research impact within the field.
Scope of Research and Qualification Criteria
Our analysis considered a total of 279,971 scientist profiles identified across a broad spectrum of bibliometric data sources encompassing all disciplines. Of these, 66 scientists focused specifically on Plant Science and Agronomy met criteria for inclusion in this ranking.
To qualify, a scientist's D-index had to be at least 30, ensuring the inclusion of researchers with a significant and demonstrable impact in Plant Science and Agronomy. Additionally, a majority of their tier publications—those recognized as highly credible and influential—needed to be within the designated field. Beyond bibliometrics, particular attention was given to scientists’ awards and other recognized achievements within Plant Science and Agronomy, adding further validation of their standing in the community.
The threshold for the D-index is dynamically set as an increment of 10 in accordance with the total estimated number of scholars in each discipline, thereby guaranteeing that the top 1% of leading scholars are represented. Moreover, a stringent proximity criterion ensures that the difference between a scientist’s general H-index and their D-index does not exceed 30%, reflecting a consistent focus in their research contributions.
Verification and Methodological Rigor
At Research.com, we recognize that raw bibliometric data alone cannot serve as an absolute measure of a scholar’s output or impact. To uphold the highest standards of accuracy and credibility, all scientist profiles were manually verified and cross-checked against publications from a wide array of trustworthy sources.
While the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence a researcher’s position in the ranking, it remains an important secondary indicator of their contribution to the scientific community in Plant Science and Agronomy.
The ranking positions were established using each researcher’s D-index values as sourced from OpenAlex and CrossRef, the most authoritative bibliometric databases currently accessible. For a comprehensive understanding of the methodology applied, readers are encouraged to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Research.com is committed to fostering a transparent and informed global research ecosystem. Our mission in developing this ranking is to motivate researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to gain insights into the trajectories of leading experts. By providing a reliable and meticulously curated resource, we enable the entire scientific community to recognize top scholars in specific domains, across countries, or within individual research institutions.
This initiative supports strategic collaboration, funding decisions, and academic benchmarking, ultimately contributing to the advancement of Plant Science and Agronomy research in Mexico and beyond.