Data Sources and Bibliometric Metrics
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Social Sciences and Humanities Scientists in Netherlands Ranking is primarily based on bibliometric data collected from OpenAlex and CrossRef, two of the most prominent and comprehensive bibliometric databases currently available to the global research community. In addition to these primary sources, multiple other high-quality data repositories were leveraged to ensure breadth and reliability in the data aggregation process. The citation-based metrics that underpin the ranking were compiled on January 12, 2026, ensuring the currency and relevance of the information presented.
A researcher’s position within this ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a discipline-specific adaptation of the traditional H-index. This metric exclusively accounts for papers and citation counts pertinent to the examined discipline, providing a more focused and accurate representation of a scientist’s impact within Social Sciences and Humanities.
Scope and Criteria of the Ranking
The ranking comprehensively examines 279,971 scientist profiles aggregated across diverse bibliometric sources covering all scientific disciplines. From this expansive dataset, 299 scientists whose research predominantly aligns with the Social Sciences and Humanities fields were identified for inclusion.
To qualify for the ranking, candidates were required to demonstrate a D-index of at least 30 within the Social Sciences and Humanities. Additionally, the majority of their tier publications needed to be situated squarely within this domain. Beyond bibliometric performance, researchers’ awards and achievements specific to Social Sciences and Humanities constituted an evaluative factor enhancing the overall assessment.
The threshold D-index for consideration is calibrated in increments of 10 depending on the estimated scholar population size per discipline, ensuring that the top 1% of leading experts are duly recognized. Furthermore, a proximity criterion restricts the divergence between a scientist's general H-index and their D-index to no more than 30%, promoting alignment between overall impact and discipline-specific contributions.
Verification and Methodological Rigor
The research team behind this ranking is keenly aware that raw bibliometric data, while invaluable, cannot serve as an absolute measure of scholarly output and quality. Therefore, each scientist profile was manually verified and carefully cross-correlated against publications indexed in a variety of reputable and trustworthy sources. This step is critical to maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the list.
While the number of papers published in leading journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence the final rank, it is recognized as a valuable secondary signal reflecting a scientist’s contribution to the field. The ranking position itself is ultimately established using the D-index derived from the data harvested via OpenAlex and CrossRef.
For a detailed elucidation of the complete methodology utilized in the compilation of this ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
Our mission at Research.com is to stimulate and support researchers, corporations, and policymakers worldwide by providing transparent and reliable insights into where leading experts are directing their efforts. By identifying and showcasing top scientists within specific areas of study—whether by country or institution—we aim to strengthen the global scientific ecosystem. This ranking is designed to facilitate recognition within the academic community, promote collaboration, and inform strategic decision-making among stakeholders invested in advancing the Social Sciences and Humanities.
We take pride in the meticulous and rigorous approach employed in the creation of this ranking and remain committed to continuously improving and updating our processes to reflect the evolving landscape of research excellence.
