Data Sources and Metrics
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Social Sciences and Humanities Scientists in Vietnam Ranking is constructed primarily using data from OpenAlex and CrossRef, complemented by multiple other reputable bibliometric sources. The bibliometric data underpinning the citation-based metrics utilized in the ranking was collected on January 12, 2026. A scientist’s position within this ranking is determined based on their D-index (Discipline H-index), a metric that accounts solely for papers and citation data pertinent to the examined discipline—Social Sciences and Humanities in this context. This targeted approach ensures that the ranking reflects a researcher’s impact within their specific field rather than their general scientific output.
Scope of Research and Eligibility Criteria
A comprehensive examination was conducted spanning 279,971 scientist profiles drawn from a variety of bibliometric databases across all disciplines, with a concentrated focus on 2,000 scientists identified specifically in the Social Sciences and Humanities. To qualify for inclusion in this ranking, a scientist’s D-index must be at least 30, and the majority of their tier publications should be situated within the Social Sciences and Humanities domain. Additionally, scientists’ awards and distinguished achievements relevant to the discipline were considered as an important qualitative factor.
The D-index threshold for top researchers is adaptively set as an increment of 10, calibrated according to the total estimated number of scholars within each discipline. This guarantees the inclusion of approximately the top 1% of leading experts. Furthermore, to ensure disciplinary alignment, there is a requirement that the proximity between the scientist’s general H-index and their discipline-specific D-index does not exceed 30%.
Verification Practices and Methodology
Recognizing that raw data alone cannot provide an absolute evaluation of scientific contribution, the Research.com team has undertaken rigorous manual verification of all scientist profiles. This process includes cross-correlation with published works verified through a broad spectrum of trustworthy sources. While not directly influencing ranking position, the quantity of publications in high-profile journals and conference proceedings is acknowledged as a valuable secondary indicator of a scientist’s contributions within their discipline.
The ranking relies on each researcher's D-index, compiled through meticulously gathered data from OpenAlex and CrossRef—two of the most authoritative bibliometric databases accessible to the global research community. Researchers and institutional representatives are encouraged to consult our methodology page for complete transparency on the processes involved in the assembly and verification of this ranking.
Research.com’s Mission
The fundamental mission behind the creation of this ranking is to inspire researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders worldwide to track and understand where leading experts in Social Sciences and Humanities are directing their inquiry. By providing a clear and reliable means of identifying top researchers at the country, institutional, and disciplinary level, we aim to foster greater collaboration, informed decision-making, and enhanced recognition of scientific excellence within the global academic community.
