National-, institutional-, and individual-level determinants of dental research excellence: an analysis of Stanford–Elsevier lists of the top 2% scholars worldwide (2017–2023)
Publication type
journal article
Publication date
October 3, 2025
Author(s)
Riad, Abanoub
Publisher
Frontiers Media SA
Language
English
View point(s)
Global
Discipline(s)
Abstract
Background
Research excellence, distinct from productivity, is a key criterion in science policy and institutional evaluation. This study examined global distribution and determinants of dental research excellence using the Stanford–Elsevier Lists (SEL) of the top 2% most-cited scientists.
Methods
A bibliometric analysis was conducted using SEL datasets from 2017 to 2023. The analysis followed an ecological model consisting of three layers of independent variables: national-level indicators (macroeconomic metrics, oral disease burden, and development indices), institutional rankings, and individual-level variables (gender and academic age) were analysed. Descriptive statistics, multivariable regressions, and mixed-effects models were applied.
Results
The analysis demonstrated a markedly uneven global distribution of excellent dental scholars (EDS), with 96.1% and 88.9% of career-long and single-year EDS, respectively, based in high-income countries. English-speaking countries dominated, reflecting historical and linguistic biases. Institutional elitism was apparent, with 20 universities accounting for nearly one-fifth of all EDS worldwide. Gender disparities persisted, with women comprising only 14.8% (career-long) and 18.1% (single-year). Academic age consistently predicted scholarly metrics more strongly than gender. EDS numbers correlated positively with macroeconomic indicators, particularly R&D investment, while oral disease burden was negatively correlated.
Conclusions
Dental research excellence is disproportionately concentrated in high-income, English-speaking countries and elite institutions. Historic gender disparities remain, though narrowing trends are noticeable. The observed misalignment between oral disease burden and research excellence highlights the need for inclusive, needs-based research investment.
Part of
Frontiers in Oral Health
ISSN
2673-4842
Volume
6