KARACHI: In a remarkable recognition of Pakistan’s growing contribution to global research, more than two dozen scholars from the Aga Khan University (AKU) have been included in the World’s Top 2% Most-Cited Scientists List for 2024, compiled by Stanford University.
The annual list, one of the most respected global benchmarks for scientific excellence, identifies leading researchers across diverse disciplines — including health care, education, climate science, economics, and mental health — based on standardized citation data from Elsevier’s Scopus database. The ranking evaluates scientists’ influence through their academic citations and the quality of the peer-reviewed journals where their research is published.
From Pakistan, over 20 distinguished AKU faculty members and alumni have earned a place on this year’s list. Among them are Dr. Zulfiqar A. Bhutta, Dr. Salim S. Virani, Dr. Romaina Iqbal, and Dr. Jai Kumar Das, whose pioneering work continues to shape policies and improve lives in Pakistan and around the world. Many of these scholars also hold leadership positions in national and international agencies, underscoring AKU’s far-reaching impact on global research and policy.
Collectively, AKU’s research has influenced 5,347 policy documents in 25 countries, including those of the World Health Organization (WHO), World Bank, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and UNICEF. Their findings have advanced standards of care, strengthened evidence-based policymaking, and inspired generations of professionals devoted to improving health, education, and community well-being.
“These rankings reflect not only the incredible talent within AKU but also the University’s steadfast commitment to fostering excellence in research,” said Dr. Salim S. Virani, Vice Provost, Research, and Professor of Medicine at AKU. “By investing in state-of-the-art research facilities and building partnerships with world-leading institutions, we continue to promote innovation and quality in our work.”
The recognition underscores Pakistan’s expanding footprint in global academia and reaffirms the role of institutions like AKU in nurturing top-tier scientists. By earning a place in such prestigious global rankings, AKU enhances its ability to attract international collaborations, research funding, and world-class talent — further advancing its mission to drive progress in education, health, and sustainable development across Pakistan and the developing world.
