A Novel Methodology for Identifying the Top 1% Scientists Using a Composite Performance Index

Alexey Remizov, Shazim Ali Memon () and Saule Sadykova
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Alexey Remizov: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
Shazim Ali Memon: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
Saule Sadykova: Office of Research Policy and Analysis, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan

Publications, 2025, vol. 13, issue 4, 1-37

Abstract: There is a growing need for comprehensive and transparent frameworks in bibliometric evaluation that support fairer assessments and capture the multifaceted nature of research performance. This study proposes a novel methodology for identifying top-performing researchers based on a composite performance index (CPI). Unlike existing rankings, this framework presents a multidimensional approach by integrating sixteen weighted bibliometrics metrics, spanning research productivity, citation, publications in top journal percentiles, authorship roles, and international collaboration, into a single CPI, enabling a more nuanced and equitable evaluation of researcher performance. Data were retrieved from SciVal for 1996–2025. Two ranking exercises were conducted with Kazakhstan as the analytical unit. Subject-specific rankings identified the top 1% authors within different research areas, while subject-independent rankings highlighted the overall top 1%. CPI distributions varied markedly across disciplines. A comparative analysis with the Stanford/Elsevier global top 2% list was conducted as additional benchmarking. The results highlight that academic excellence depends on a broad spectrum of strengths beyond just productivity, particularly in competitive disciplines. The CPI provides a consistent and adaptable tool for assessing and recognizing research performance; however, future refinements should enhance data coverage, improve representation of early-career researchers, and integrate qualitative aspects.

Keywords: Composite Performance Index (CPI); researcher evaluation; bibliometric indicators; researchers ranking; scientific productivity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A2 D83 L82 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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