Institutions are ranked according to the aggregate of D-indexes (Discipline H-index) of all listed scholars whose principal area of publication is Economics and Finance. The D-index is a refined metric that accounts exclusively for publications and citation data within a specific discipline, providing an accurate reflection of scholarly impact in Economics and Finance.
Scope of Research and Analytical Criteria
In developing this ranking, Research.com undertook the examination of 279,971 scientist profiles identified from a broad array of bibliometric sources. From these, 12,210 scientists specializing in Economics and Finance were closely analyzed. To ensure only the most impactful scholars were included, the qualifying D-index threshold was established at 30, with a requirement that the majority of a scholar’s significant publications be in Economics and Finance.
An additional consideration was given to a scientist’s awards and achievements in this field. The rigorous approach mandates that the D-index threshold for recognized top researchers is set in increments of ten, conditional on the total number of eligible scholars in each discipline, while guaranteeing that the ranking encompasses the leading top 1% of experts worldwide. Furthermore, there must be a proximity of 30% or less between a scientist’s general H-index and their D-index, ensuring field-specific distinction. Recognized awards and distinctions in Economics and Finance were also integral to candidate evaluation.
Verification and Data Validation Procedures
Research.com recognizes that raw bibliometric data alone cannot capture the full picture of a scholar’s impact. Consequently, all scientist profiles were manually reviewed and verified, with cross-validation against an extensive range of reputable publication databases and academic sources. While not a direct ranking factor, the number of works published in prominent journals and high-impact conference proceedings is regarded as an important auxiliary indicator of a scientist's contribution to Economics and Finance.
Researchers' ranks are determined via the H-index as calculated from OpenAlex and CrossRef, which are the most recognized and authoritative bibliometric databases available to the contemporary research community. For further transparency and methodological specifics, detailed explanations can be found on our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission Behind the Ranking
The principal aim of Research.com in creating these rankings is to motivate scientists, business leaders, and policymakers globally to closely monitor the advances and directions of top academic experts. We seek to empower the broader research community to identify and connect with leading specialists within their disciplines, be it at the national, institutional, or international levels. The ranking is thus intended as both a tool for recognition and a practical resource for networking, collaboration, and benchmarking.
Key Results of the 4th Edition Belgium Economics and Finance Ranking
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Leading Institutions in Belgium (by number of top scientists):
- KU Leuven: 13 scientists
- Université Catholique de Louvain: 7 scientists
- Université Libre de Bruxelles: 7 scientists
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Most Prominent Global Institutions in Economics and Finance:
Columbia University, University of Chicago, Harvard University, MIT, Imperial College London, Indiana University, Federal University of Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of California, Berkeley, The Ohio State University.
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Top Individual Scholars Worldwide:
- 1st: Professor Joseph E. Stiglitz (Columbia University) – D-index: 191
- 2nd: James J. Heckman (University of Chicago) – D-index: 181
- 3rd: Andrei Shleifer (Harvard University) – D-index: 168
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Average Metrics for Top Institutions:
- Average total D-index for top 5% universities: 1987
Average for all 584 institutions: 234
- Average number of articles published (top 5%): 6674
Average for all 584 universities: 903
- Average number of citations (top 1%): 3,279,971
Average for all 584 universities: 279,971
This carefully curated ranking is the result of extensive, multidisciplinary data evaluation and ongoing quality assurance. It is designed to deliver a transparent, reliable, and comprehensive assessment of research excellence in Economics and Finance, both in Belgium and in the worldwide context.
