Data Sources and Citation-Based Metrics
The 3rd edition of the Research.com Best Universities in Colombia Ranking is built upon a foundation of comprehensive bibliometric data, with primary sources including OpenAlex and CrossRef, alongside multiple other reputable data sources. The citation-based metrics that underpin the ranking were established through a data collection process conducted on November 27, 2024.
Each university’s position in the ranking is determined by the sum of D-indexes (Discipline H-index) accrued by all ranking scholars affiliated with that institution. The D-index is a metric that exclusively accounts for publications and citation data specific to an individual’s examined discipline, ensuring discipline-appropriate measurement of scholarly impact. Importantly, the ranking encompasses scientists from all major research areas, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of academic excellence across Colombian institutions.
Scope of Research and Scholar Evaluation
The Research.com ranking is grounded in an extensive review of 279,971 scientist profiles identified from a variety of bibliometric data sources. The analysis covered all major scientific disciplines to ensure a balanced and representative assessment of research strengths throughout the Colombian academic landscape.
To qualify for inclusion, each scientist was required to have a D-index threshold of at least 20, indicative of a significant and sustained contribution to their field. Beyond bibliometric criteria, the assessment also considered each researcher's awards and professional achievements, further enhancing the robustness and reliability of the ranking process.
Verification Practices and Data Integrity
Recognizing the inherent limitations of relying solely on raw bibliometric data, the Research.com team implemented meticulous additional verification practices. Every scientist profile included in the ranking underwent manual verification, with cross-correlation against publications in a broad array of trustworthy sources to confirm the validity and accuracy of the data.
While the sheer volume of publications in prestigious journals and conference proceedings was not a direct factor in determining a researcher’s position, it serves as an important supplementary signal reflecting their contribution to the scientific community. Ranking positions are established using each researcher's H-index, as gathered from OpenAlex and CrossRef—two of the most respected and widely utilized bibliometric databases available to the global research community.
For more comprehensive details about the methodology adopted in constructing the ranking, please visit our methodology page.
Research.com Agenda and Mission
At Research.com, our mission is to motivate scientists, business leaders, and policymakers worldwide to explore the directions in which leading experts are advancing their fields. Our aim is to provide an accessible and authoritative resource that enables the entire research community to identify and connect with top specialists within specific disciplines, across different countries, and within individual research institutions. Through this ranking, we strive to foster greater transparency and collaboration in science, supporting the ongoing advancement of research on a global scale.
