World Online Ranking of Best Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Scientists – 2023 Report

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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On March 9th 2023, Research.com released the 2nd edition of the annual ranking for best scientists in the area of mechanical and aerospace engineering. This report, which presents a list of leading scholars is designed to offer the academic community more visibility and exposure to the influential research contributions made by those at the forefront of mechanical and aerospace engineering.

In releasing this ranking, we hope to inspire researchers, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs around the world to find out where leading experts are heading. It is a great opportunity for all of us to learn from this report about the experts in the different research areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering, in different countries, as well as within different research institutions and universities.

For the 2023 edition of the ranking, more than 5,700 scientist profiles from various bibliometric data sources have been examined using several indicators and metrics in order to consider each scientist’s inclusion in the ranking.

The D-index (Discipline H-index) threshold for a scholar to be considered was set at 30 if most of their publications were in the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering. To be considered for the ranking of top scientists, the inclusion criteria for the scholars are based on the discipline H-index, the proportion of contributions made within the given discipline, plus, the awards and achievements of the scientists.

The latest discoveries in mechanical & aerospace engineering research

From advances in computational fluid dynamics in the aerospace domain to the development of high-strength titanium alloys for aerospace engineering applications, research in the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering is always dynamic and impactful. Mechanical and aerospace engineering researchers are also at the cutting edge of research and development as they race against time for the development of technology and materials for green energy.

Working in research areas such as applied physics, biomechanics, and propulsion and energy sciences, mechanical and aerospace engineers build micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) that form part of major discoveries and innovations. Creating reusable space rockets such as the Falcons of Space X by analyzing the bending loads, stresses, and deflections of various components has brought mechanical and aerospace engineering to the forefront of research.

The Key findings for the 2023 edition of the best mechanical & aerospace engineering scientists ranking

• Scholars from the United States are dominating the ranking with 442 scientists, representing 44.2% of all leading mechanical and aerospace engineering scientists. The other countries with leading positions in the ranking are China (81 scientists or 8.1%), the United Kingdom (73 scientists or 7.3%), Australia (43 scientists or 4.3%), Canada (42 scientists or 4.2%), Germany (30 scientists or 3.0%), and Iran (25 scientists or 2.5%).
• 6 out of 10 scientists in the top 1% are from the United States, while the rest are from Iran, Canada, Romania, and Australia.
• The top position in the ranking is held by Ted Belytschko from Northwestern University, who has a D-index of 153.
• In 2023, MIT was the research institution hosting the highest number of leading mechanical and aerospace engineers with as many as 24 of them working there this year.
• Universities based in the U.S. constitute 90% of the top 10 leading institutions. The only non-American institution that made it to the top 10 is the University of Cambridge, which is based in the United Kingdom.
• The average D-index for the top 1% of scientists is 131.9 against an average of 59.12 for all scientists included in the ranking.

The full ranking for the 2023 list of top mechanical & aerospace engineering scientists can be found here:

TOP MECHANICAL & AEROSPACE ENGINEERING SCIENTISTS RANKING

Countries with the highest number of leading mechanical & aerospace engineering scientists

Scientists from the United States dominate the list with 442 scholars in 2023, which represents 44.2% of the whole ranking. In the top 1%, 6 out of 10 scientists are from the U.S. From having 419 scientists in 2022, 23 more scientists were added to the U.S., which pushed the country's total to 442.

China ranks second with 81 scientists. The third spot was retained by the United Kingdom with 73 ranking scientists, a notable decline from 77 scientists the previous year.

The other leading countries are Australia with 43 scientists, Canada with 42 scholars, Germany with 30 scientists, and Iran and France with 25 scholars each. For Australia, 7 more scientists made it to the list, increasing its total from 36 in 2022 to 43 in 2023.

In 2023, South Korea and Singapore made it to the top 10 countries. Japan and Italy, which were both in the top 10 in 2022, did not make it to the top 10 this year.

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

How can integrated dual degree programs drive interdisciplinary breakthroughs?

Integrated dual degree programs blend advanced engineering research with strategic management, empowering scholars to bridge technical expertise and operational leadership. This convergence enhances the ability to manage complex projects, foster interdisciplinary collaborations, and accelerate the translation of innovative research into real-world applications. Integrating management acumen into technical curricula can redefine research leadership, ensuring that scholars are well-prepared to tackle evolving industry challenges while nurturing groundbreaking discoveries. Resources such as dual MBA programs online exemplify how institutions are pioneering educational models that drive both research excellence and strategic industry impact.

Institutions with the highest number of leading scientists

In the 2023 edition of our ranking, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is the leader, with 24 scientists included in the ranking. The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor ranks second with 23 scientists, and the third spot is occupied by the Georgia Institute of Technology with 17 scholars.

American universities constitute 90% of the top 10 leading institutions with the University of Cambridge as the only non-American institution.

6 out of 10 institutions in the top 1% of leading scientists are based in the U.S., the other four are from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology in Canada (ranked 4th), the Babol Noshirvani University of Technology in Iran (ranked 5th), the Babes-Bolyai University in Romania (ranked 9th), and the University of Sydney in Australia (ranked 10th).

Among 20 leading institutions 14 universities are based in the U.S., the other six are based in the U.K. (Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge), Singapore (National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University), Switzerland (ETH Zurich), and Australia (University of Sydney).

Online universities enhancing mechanical engineering & aerospace research

The recent increase in online universities' degree offerings has contributed to the development of mechanical and aerospace research by connecting scientists from different parts of the world. Making collaboration and communication a way of life for both students and professors, online universities are maximizing online technology by working with researchers from across the globe in establishing multidisciplinary partnerships. The Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University, for instance, offers collaborative research facilities that aim to provide researchers with an environment that supports innovative ideas.

The online degree programs on mechanical and aerospace engineering research lead to radical collaborations of renowned scholars from academia, industry, and government. Students are trained to become innovative thinkers and leaders by the best and brightest faculty, and eventually take on graduate research fellowships as awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and other organizations. In 2022, the NSF offered approximately 2,100 fellowships from 12,000 applications. By providing top-notch research programs, students of online degree programs are able to contribute real-world solutions and advancements in research areas such as aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, engineering materials, and guide systems.

How does affordable online education catalyze research innovation in mechanical and aerospace engineering?

By minimizing financial entry barriers, competitively priced online programs empower a wider spectrum of emerging scientists to pursue advanced research without the encumbrance of high application costs. This model promotes inclusivity and drives interdisciplinary collaboration, ultimately enhancing the quality of research output. Prospective students can explore similar opportunities via the online college no application fee initiative, which underscores the commitment to accessible and innovative education.

How do comprehensive bachelor's degree programs enhance foundational research in mechanical and aerospace engineering?

A robust undergraduate program in mechanical and aerospace engineering establishes the essential framework for advanced research through an integration of theory and practical application. These programs emphasize critical thinking, technical problem solving, and early exposure to research methodologies, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for multidisciplinary innovation. Furthermore, coursework is often supplemented with hands-on projects and collaborative initiatives that foster an investigative mindset, paving the way for impactful future studies. For those assessing career trajectories and institutional offerings, insights from the highest paying bachelor's degrees can be instrumental in making informed decisions.

How can an associate degree online bolster early research careers in mechanical and aerospace engineering?

An associate degree online equips early-career professionals with essential technical and analytical skills that serve as a springboard into advanced research roles. This foundational program emphasizes core principles and practical applications, enabling graduates to seamlessly transition into specialized areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering. By integrating critical coursework with hands-on experience, the degree empowers students to contribute to innovative, multidisciplinary projects and establishes a strong academic base for further research and professional development.

How does advanced degree education influence research career outcomes?

Advanced degree education cultivates specialized research skills and strategic problem-solving abilities, which in turn heighten professional visibility and funding prospects. This enhanced expertise translates into greater career progression and competitive compensation, often reflected in leadership roles within both academia and industry. The strong correlation between advanced educational credentials and career success underscores the value of specialized programs that prepare candidates for high-impact research initiatives, as seen in programs leading to highest-paying master's degrees.

How do military-friendly online programs impact defense research in mechanical and aerospace engineering?

Specialized online programs designed for military personnel offer tailored curriculum frameworks that integrate technical and operational insights, fostering innovation in defense-related projects. These programs facilitate access to unique research resources and collaborations that support advancements in materials science, propulsion systems, and aerospace design, thereby addressing critical defense challenges. Enhanced flexibility in course delivery and targeted talent development enable participants to contribute effectively to dual-use technologies and security initiatives, strengthening the overall research ecosystem in mechanical and aerospace engineering. Institutions recognized as a military friendly university exemplify this strategic approach by providing focused support and specialized research opportunities.

How can accelerated online doctorate programs fuel research breakthroughs in mechanical and aerospace engineering?

Accelerated online doctorate pathways compress rigorous research training into a condensed timeframe, enabling scholars to engage in high-impact research sooner. This model fosters nimble integration of cross-disciplinary methodologies, promotes swift access to emerging research tools, and encourages proactive collaboration with industry experts. Programs such as a 1 year online doctorate program illustrate how an expedited doctoral curriculum can align academic research with practical applications to drive innovative advancements in mechanical and aerospace engineering.

H-index ranking – leaders, averages, and distribution

For North America, Professor Ted Belytschko, from Northwestern University in the U.S. ranks 1st on our list of leading scientists with a high D-index of 153.

Professor Mohsen Sheikholeslami from the Babol Noshirvani University of Technology in Iran leads the top list in Asia with a D-index of 132 and a world ranking of 5.

For Europe, Professor Ioan Pop from the Babes-Bolyai University in Romania is ranked first in the region, and 9th in the world, with a D-index of 119.

For Oceania, Professor Yiu-Wing Mai from the University of Sydney in Australia is on top of the list with a world ranking of 10 and a D-index of 118.

Professor Josua P. Meyer from Stellenbosch University, South Africa is the top scientist from Africa with a world ranking of 316.

Professor Michael J. Brennan from the Sao Paulo State University in Brazil is the highest-ranking scientist from South America with a world ranking of 372.

The average D-index for the top 1% of scientists is 131.9 against an average of 59.12 for all scientists included in the ranking.

The scholar with the lowest index value who made it to the ranking in 2023 has a D-index of 42.

The average number of published articles for the 1% of scientists in the ranking is 768 against an average of 311 for all ranking scholars.

You can learn more about the methodology used to create the ranking 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.