Highly Cited Researchers: A Global Snapshot of Scientific Influence

The 2023 list of Highly Cited Researchers (HCRs), released by Clarivate, offers a compelling snapshot of the global scientific landscape. With 6,849 individuals recognized, the list highlights the concentration of top talent in certain countries and regions, as well as the impact of technological advancements on scientific research.

The 2023 list underscores the growing influence of Mainland China, which has more than doubled its world share of the list in five years, reaching 17.9%. This shift reflects a transformational rebalancing of scientific and scholarly contributions at the top level through the globalization of research. The rise of China is driven by factors such as increased investment in research and development, a growing number of English-language publications, and enhanced international collaboration.

Meanwhile, the United States, while still leading the world in research influence, has seen a slow downward loss of share, from 43.3% in 2018 to 37.5% in 2023. This shift underscores the global nature of scientific progress and the importance of fostering international cooperation in research.

The 2023 list also reflects the growing influence of AI and machine learning in scientific research. Notably, 238 researchers are recognized in multiple fields, indicating multidisciplinary influence. Among them, 15% are from AI-related fields, up from 10% in 2018. This rise mirrors the increasing adoption of AI and machine learning in various scientific disciplines, driving innovative discoveries and enhancing research impact.


The global distribution of HCRs is influenced by various factors, including research funding and policy, immigration policies and international collaborations, and cultural and linguistic factors. The concentration of top talent in certain countries/regions reflects strategic investments in research and development, targeted policies aimed at fostering innovation, and the attraction of top talent through immigration policies and international collaborations.

The trends in HCRs across physics, chemistry, and biology fields reflect global priorities and advancements in scientific research. In 2023, advancements in quantum computing and condensed matter physics are prominent in physics, while research on molecular dynamics and drug discovery is notable in chemistry. In biology, genetic imprinting and protein structure research are key, highlighting the focus on personalized medicine and biotechnology.

In conclusion, the 2023 list of Highly Cited Researchers provides valuable insights into the global landscape of scientific influence. The growing influence of Mainland China, the increasing impact of AI and machine learning, and the concentration of top talent in certain countries/regions highlight the importance of fostering international cooperation and investment in research and development. As the scientific community continues to evolve, the HCR list serves as a useful tool for tracking global trends and identifying emerging areas of research.