Data Sources and Methodology
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Universities in Poland Ranking is primarily based on extensive bibliometric data gathered from leading databases, including OpenAlex and CrossRef, supplemented by multiple additional data sources to ensure broad and robust coverage. The bibliometric data utilized to develop the citation-based metrics underpinning this ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. Each institution’s position in the ranking is determined by the aggregate sum of D-indexes (Discipline H-index) from all ranking scholars affiliated with that institution. The D-index is a discipline-specific variant of the H-index that exclusively considers publications and citation data pertinent to the examined discipline. Notwithstanding this focus, scientists representing all major research areas were comprehensively included in the ranking process, thus providing a multidisciplinary perspective on institutional performance.
Scope of Research and Inclusion Criteria
A total of 279,971 scientist profiles were identified and examined across all major scientific disciplines, through integration of data from diverse bibliometric repositories. To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, a scientist's D-index threshold was set at 20, ensuring that only researchers with a demonstrable and significant scholarly impact were considered. Furthermore, the ranking process took into account notable awards and achievements within each scientist’s field of study, thereby complementing quantitative bibliometric indicators with qualitative recognition of academic excellence.
Verification Practices and Data Integrity
We recognize that raw bibliometric data alone cannot offer an absolute measure of scholarly output and impact. Therefore, all scientist profiles included in the ranking were subjected to manual verification and were cross-correlated with their publications across a broad range of reputable and trustworthy sources. Although the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly affect researchers’ ranking positions, it is regarded as an important secondary signal reflecting a scholar’s contribution to their specific scientific domain.
The institutional ranking itself is rooted in each researcher's H-index values, derived from bibliometric information aggregated from OpenAlex and CrossRef—two of the most prominent and widely respected databases accessible to the global research community. We invite readers to explore our methodology page for a detailed explanation of the methods and data sources employed in this ranking.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
At Research.com, our mission in creating this ranking series is to motivate scientists, business leaders, and policymakers worldwide to closely observe developments and directions pursued by top experts in various fields. We aim to provide the global research community with transparent and reliable tools to identify leading experts across disciplines, countries, and academic institutions. Through this effort, we strive to foster collaboration, informed decision-making, and strategic investment in research and innovation.
