World Online Ranking of Best Computer Scientists – 2023 Report

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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On March 21, 2023, Research.com published the 9th edition of the annual best computer scientist ranking. The report aims to increase the online visibility of established and upcoming scholars in the field of computer science.

Additionally, researchers, academics, businesses, and other decision-makers in an organization can refer to our report as their source for experts in a particular research topic in computer science. Since we also include the scientists' country and professional and academic affiliations, searching and networking with the right experts become even more convenient.

For the 2023 report, our research team reviewed over 14,400 scientist profiles using various bibliometric sources. Led by our chief data scientist, Imed Bouchrika, PhD, the Research.com team analyzed several indicators and metrics to determine each scientist's inclusion in the ranking.

The threshold for the D-index (Discipline H-index) was set at 30 for most computer science publications. Moreover, the inclusion criteria are based on the discipline D-index, the proportion of contributions within the given discipline, as well as awards and achievements of the scientists.

Latest discoveries in computer science research

The field of computer science has had an abundance of significant breakthroughs and advancements in recent years. These include improvements in quantum computing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, natural language processing, edge computing, blockchain technology, and cybersecurity. The discoveries and progress in these areas have found their practical application in crucial sectors such as healthcare, finance, education, and transportation.

In healthcare, for instance, providers are embracing AI technology in a variety of services—from caring for the elderly to reading X-rays and improving administrative systems. Meanwhile, the previous releases of DALL-E in 2021 and ChatGPT in 2022, both laid the groundwork for many exciting developments in natural language processing and multimodal AI we can expect in the future.

Discoveries in quantum computing, on the other hand, have the potential to revolutionize computing power and solve complex problems faster than traditional computers. IBM, for example, is expected to announce this year a processor that bucks the trend of prevailing quantum bits, or “qubits,” being implemented to date.

How can affordable cybersecurity education boost computer science research?

Emerging cybersecurity challenges call for professionals who can bridge theoretical research and practical applications. Accessible online programs, such as the cheapest cyber security degree online, offer a cost-effective pathway for acquiring critical skills. This integration of industry-relevant training with academic rigor supports innovation, encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthens the overall research landscape within computer science.

The key findings for the 9th edition of the best computer scientists ranking

• Computer scientists from the United States dominate this year's ranking report with 583 scientists representing 58.3% of all leading scientists. Following in the ranking are scientists from China (92 scientists or 9.2%), the United Kingdom (64 scientists or 6.4%), Germany (38 scientists or 3.8%), and Canada (37 scientists or 3.7%).
• Among the top 10 scientists, six are from the United States. Other scientists in the top 10 are from the United Kingdom, Canada, Spain, and Germany.
• The no. 1 position in the ranking remains the same as last year and is held by Anil K. Jain from Michigan State University, who has an h-index of 203.
• This year, Stanford University is the research institution hosting the highest number of leading computer scientists with as many as 38.
• The average H-index for the top 1% of scientists is 175 against an average of 90 for all 1,000 scientists included in the ranking.

The full ranking for the 2023 list of the best computer scientists can be found here:

WORLD'S BEST COMPUTER SCIENTISTS RANKING

How do short-term certificate programs support career advancement in computer science?

Focused, job-oriented certificate programs provide professionals with immediate expertise in emerging technologies, narrowing the gap between theoretical research and practical application. These programs offer a streamlined learning experience that quickly updates technical skills to meet current industry demands. In a competitive field, enrolling in short certificate programs that pay well online can serve as a strategic advantage, fostering rapid career progression and enhancing contributions to innovative projects.

Countries with the highest number of leading computer scientists

The United States maintains its top position as the country with the most computer scientists: 583. That number though has decreased from last year's 591. Among the top 1% of scientists, affiliations are quite diverse, with 5 researchers working for United States institutions, 2 scientists from Canadian universities, and one from Germany, the U.K., and Australia.

Meanwhile, China and the United Kingdom also kept their second-place and third-place ranking from the previous year with 92 and 64 scientists, respectively.

The top 10 countries in our report mostly held on to their positions with the exception of Italy, which relinquishes its position to France. The other leading countries are Germany, Canada, Switzerland, Singapore, Israel, and Australia.

Please note that the country associated with a scientist is based on the affiliated research institution according to MAG, not on their actual nationality.

Institutions with the highest number of leading scientists

In 2023's ranking report, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) dropped from its previous number-one ranking with 36 scientists. It shares this place with Carnegie Mellon University, also with 36 scientists. Stanford University is this year's top institution for computer scientists with 38 in total.

While 2022's report saw only American universities and companies dominating the top 10 institutions, this year, we have a new research university in the ranks. ETH Zurich, a public research university in Zürich, Switzerland enters at number 10.

Among the 20 leading institutions, 16 are U.S.-based universities and companies, two are in Switzerland (ETH Zurich as well as the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) the other four are based in Switzerland (ETH Zurich as well as the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), one is located in the United Kingdom (University of Oxford), and one is in Israel (Weizmann Institute of Science).

Outside of research universities, private companies Google and Microsoft employ the highest number of best computer scientists that appeared in our report. Twenty-seven and 25, respectively.

How do accelerated doctoral programs drive rapid research breakthroughs?

Accelerated doctoral programs are engineered to fast‐track advanced research skills and cultivate leadership in computer science innovation. By compressing traditional timelines, these programs enable emerging scholars to dive into rigorous, project-based research while engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations. This streamlined approach not only minimizes academic delays but also promotes immediate problem-solving and practical application of cutting-edge technologies. Innovative pathways, such as 1 year PhD programs, have set a precedent for rapid progression in academia, thereby reinforcing research competitiveness on a global scale.

What role do industry-academic partnerships play in driving research breakthroughs?

Industry-academic partnerships integrate cutting-edge research with practical business applications, enabling access to specialized resources, proprietary data, and diversified funding. These collaborative endeavors promote the rapid translation of theoretical innovations into commercial solutions, enhance research capabilities, and support the development of advanced skill sets. Additionally, these alliances provide professionals with streamlined pathways to acquire industry-relevant expertise through targeted training programs, including certification for high paying jobs, further bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Strengthening research in online universities

Online education has become a safe and viable way for the best universities in the world to deliver courses and online degrees. Online universities are borderless and allow computer science students and scientists to access specialized training courses that may otherwise be difficult to obtain if they are not available locally. Online education also often provides a flexible schedule, so it enables individuals to effectively balance research activities with other commitments, such as teaching, work, or family responsibilities.

As a result, universities have opened their doors to online collaboration, which facilitates information exchange among students, researchers, and professionals. The Princeton Institute for Computational Science & Engineering (PICSciE), for example, conducts online workshops and live training.

Moreover, online universities can offer extensive digital libraries and databases that students and researchers can access. They can also offer research tools like reference management software, statistical analysis tools, and data visualization tools that can further strengthen and support academic and research endeavors.

What role do accelerated degree programs play in fostering computer science innovation?

Accelerated degree programs offer professionals a streamlined pathway to acquire essential qualifications in a shorter amount of time, bridging the gap between foundational education and advanced research roles. Such programs are crafted to align with current industry demands, ensuring that emerging experts can rapidly contribute to innovative projects and interdisciplinary collaborations. This focused educational model supports the dynamic landscape of computer science by promoting flexibility and timely skill acquisition, thereby fostering the next generation of research pioneers. Prospective students and professionals interested in expediting their educational journey are encouraged to explore the fastest online associate's degree pathway to gain a competitive advantage in the field.

How do undergraduate credentials influence career outcomes in computer science research?

Robust undergraduate programs lay the foundation for research innovation and long-term career success in computer science. Comprehensive academic curricula, combined with early exposure to emerging technologies, can significantly drive both scholarly achievements and industry impact. Notably, institutions offering programs aligned with market demand tend to produce graduates who not only contribute to advanced research but also achieve competitive career positions and financial recognition. For instance, students pursuing one of the highest-paying 4-year degrees often report accelerated professional growth and elevated research capabilities.

What is the impact of affordable computer science education on research innovation?

Affordable education models are increasingly recognized as drivers of research innovation by expanding participation and diversifying the talent pool. Lower tuition costs and flexible learning environments help talented individuals from varied socioeconomic backgrounds contribute to cutting-edge projects and interdisciplinary initiatives. These accessible pathways foster a culture of continuous learning and practical application, accelerating technological breakthroughs. Furthermore, leveraging flexible programs, such as those offered by online colleges for working adults, supports professionals in balancing career advancement with research pursuits, ultimately broadening the base of innovative computer science research.

H-index ranking-leaders, averages, and distribution

For North America, Professor Anil K. Jain of Michigan State University leads the list of best computer scientists in our 2023 report with a D-index of 203. Professor Jain's research focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning.

For Europe, Professor Francisco Herrera of the University of Granada in Spain ranks ninth in the report with an h-index of 161. His research topics also revolve around AI.

For Oceania, Professor Rajkumar Buyya from the University of Melbourne, Australia placed 11th in the world with a D-index of 156.

Professor Lei Zhang of Hong Kong Polytechnic University occupies the 30th spot in the world ranking and leads other Asian scientists with a D-index of 136.

For the Middle East and Central Asia, Professor Ian F. Akyildiz of the Technology Innovation Institute, United Arab Emirates leads the list of best computer scientists with a D-index of 131. Professor Akyildiz focuses on computer networks.

The average D-index for the top 1% of scientists is 175 against an average of 90 for all 1,000 scientists included in the ranking.

For 2023, the average number of published articles for the top 1% of scholars in the ranking is 1,047 against an average of 473.7 for all the scientists.

The average number of citations for the top 1% of scientists is 203,704.5 against an average of 47,000.68 for all the scholars in the ranking.

You can learn more about the methodology used to create this report here.

About Research.com

All research was coordinated by Imed Bouchrika, Ph.D., a computer scientist with a well-established record of collaboration on a number of international research projects with different partners from the academic community. His role was to make sure all data remained unbiased, accurate, and up-to-date.

Research.com is the number one research portal for science and educational rankings. Our mission is to make it easier for professors, research fellows, and students to progress with their research and find the top experts in a wide range of scientific disciplines. Research.com is also a leading educational platform that helps students find the best colleges, academic opportunities, and career paths.