University of Auckland Leads New Zealand with 292 Researchers in Global Top 2 Percent

University of Auckland Researchers Achieve Global Recognition

Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, has demonstrated its significant research impact on the global stage, with 292 of its academics named among the world's top 2 percent of scientists. This recognition comes from the highly respected Stanford–Elsevier Top 2 percent of Scientists rankings for 2025, which were officially released in September and October 2025. The university's strong performance means that a quarter of New Zealand's leading researchers hail from its faculties.

The Prestigious Stanford–Elsevier Rankings

Developed collaboratively by Stanford University and Elsevier, these annual rankings identify the most influential researchers worldwide based on standardized citation metrics. The 2025 update utilizes data indexed by Scopus as of August 1, 2025, encompassing citations up to the end of 2024. The methodology evaluates research impact using both career-long and single-year citation data across 22 scientific fields and 174 sub-fields. The selection is based on a 'c-score', a composite indicator that considers the number of citations, co-authorship adjustments, and authorship positions, focusing on meaningful impact rather than mere productivity.

Broad Impact Across Disciplines

The inclusion of 292 University of Auckland researchers underscores the institution's extensive research strength across a diverse range of disciplines. This includes significant contributions in areas such as health, engineering, social sciences, arts, and humanities. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater commented on the achievement, stating, 'This recognition is a powerful endorsement of the global impact and quality of our research.' Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, Professor Frank Bloomfield, added that the results 'reflect the incredible depth of talent and dedication across our faculties.' Both Professor Freshwater and Professor Bloomfield are also featured in the rankings.

Leading Researchers and Growth

The 2025 analysis highlights a dynamic research environment within the University of Auckland, noting 56 new entrants to the list, 113 improved rankings, and 122 maintaining or slightly declining from their previous positions. Several University of Auckland academics achieved particularly high global standing:

• Professor Virginia Braun, recognized as the country's leading researcher, climbed to 140th globally.
• Honorary Professor Kevin Trenberth and Associate Professor Fan Zhu (ranked 367th) from the Faculty of Science were among the global top 500.
• Professor Cathy Stinear (Neurology and Neurosurgery) and Professor Steven Galbraith (Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing) each secured the #1 global ranking in their respective fields.

This strong showing reaffirms the University of Auckland's role as a leading institution in New Zealand and a significant contributor to global scholarship and innovation.