Ten academics from The University of Manchester have been named among the top one percent of the world’s most influential researchers, according to the newly released Highly Cited Researchers 2025 rankings by Clarivate. This prestigious global list recognises scholars whose published work has demonstrated outstanding influence within their fields, shaping research agendas and driving scientific, technological, and medical breakthroughs worldwide.
The Highly Cited Researchers designation is awarded to academics who have authored multiple papers ranking in the top 1% by citations for their field and publication year in the Web of Science database over the past eleven years. These citations – used globally as a benchmark for research excellence – highlight the significant reach, reputation, and long-term impact of the scholars’ contributions.
This year’s list includes 11 entries primarily affiliated with The University of Manchester, including a double listing for Professor Zhiguo Ding in both Computer Science and Engineering.
University of Manchester academics recognised on the 2025 Highly Cited Researchers list:
Thomas Anthopoulos – Cross-Field (Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, School of Engineering)
Adisa Azapagic – Cross-Field (Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering)
Zhiguo Ding – Computer Science (Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, School of Engineering)
Zhiguo Ding – Engineering (Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, School of Engineering)
Frank W. Geels – Social Sciences (Alliance Manchester Business School)
A. K. Geim – Cross-Field (Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Sciences)
I. V. Grigorieva – Cross-Field (Department of Physics and Astronomy, School of Natural Sciences)
Evangelos Kontopantelis – Cross-Field (Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences)
Pamela Qualter – Cross-Field (Manchester Institute of Education, School of Environment, Education and Development)
Dave Singh – Clinical Medicine (Division of Immunology, Immunity to Infection and Respiratory Medicine, School of Biological Sciences)
Juan W. Valle – Clinical Medicine (Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences)
The 2025 rankings mark the first appearance for Professors Pamela Qualter, Dave Singh, and Adisa Azapagic, highlighting a rising trajectory of Manchester researchers achieving international prominence.
Additionally, Professors Pierluigi Mancarella and Sir Konstantin S. Novoselov, who hold secondary affiliations with The University of Manchester, also earned places on this year’s list – bringing the University’s total to 13 mentions in the 2025 Clarivate rankings.
Leadership praise for Manchester’s research excellence
Professor Colette Fagan, Vice-President for Research at The University of Manchester, celebrated the achievement:
“The Highly Cited Researchers list recognises the significant contribution made by some of our world-leading researchers at The University of Manchester. Commitment to research excellence is embedded throughout the University and, with our new Manchester 2035 strategy, we aim to see more of our talented researchers recognised on this prestigious list over the years to come.”
David Pendlebury, Head of Research Analysis at Clarivate’s Institute for Scientific Information, also commended Manchester’s global research influence:
“These exceptional researchers exemplify excellence and integrity in their work. Their global impact continues to shape the future of science, technology, and academia and drives societal progress.”
A rigorous and globally respected ranking
The Highly Cited Researchers list is known for its robust methodology, combining quantitative citation metrics with expert qualitative review to identify scholars whose work truly stands at the forefront of global research.
With Manchester’s continued presence among the world’s most influential academics, the University further strengthens its reputation as a leading international hub of innovation, discovery, and research excellence.
