A scientist’s position within this ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a refined bibliometric indicator that exclusively incorporates publications and citation metrics pertaining to the examined discipline, in this case, Plant Science and Agronomy. This targeted approach enables a discipline-focused evaluation of scientific impact.
Scope and Eligibility Criteria
The ranking process began with the examination of 279,971 scientist profiles extracted from a variety of bibliometric data sources covering all scientific disciplines. Within this extensive dataset, 66 scientists specializing in Plant Science and Agronomy were specifically analyzed.
To qualify for inclusion in this ranking, a scientist’s D-index had to be at least 30, with a majority of their tier publications focused on Plant Science and Agronomy. Additionally, notable awards and achievements within the discipline were considered to enhance the assessment of scholarly excellence.
The D-index threshold is calibrated in increments of 10, corresponding to the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline. This calibration is designed to ensure that the top 1% of leading scholars in Plant Science and Agronomy are incorporated into the list. Furthermore, to maintain relevancy and discipline specificity, a proximity criterion requiring that the difference between a scientist’s overall H-index and their discipline-specific D-index not exceed 30% was imposed.
Verification and Data Integrity Practices
Recognizing that raw bibliometric data alone cannot serve as an absolute measure of a scholar’s output and impact, all scientist profiles included in the ranking underwent rigorous manual verification. This process involved cross-correlation against publications verified in a wide range of trustworthy sources, reinforcing accuracy and credibility.
While the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence a researcher’s position in Research.com rankings, it remains a valuable secondary signal of a scientist’s contribution to their field.
The ranking itself is established based on each researcher’s D-index, derived from information gathered through OpenAlex and CrossRef, which are among the most prominent and trusted bibliometric databases accessible to the research community. For a comprehensive understanding of the methodology employed, readers are encouraged to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Research.com is committed to motivating researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to examine the trajectories of leading experts across diverse scientific domains. Our goal is to provide a transparent and reliable platform that enables the global scientific community to identify and engage with the foremost authorities in specific areas of study, whether at the country level, within given research institutions, or across disciplines.
This ranking reflects the culmination of careful and meticulous work to ensure trustworthiness, fostering informed decisions and collaborations that advance the frontiers of Plant Science and Agronomy.
