A recent article, ‘The changing world dynamics of research performance’ by Marko Marhl, Rene Markovikic, Vladimir Grubelnek and Matjaz Perc of the University of Maribor has been published in Scientometrics.
The purpose is “to shed light on the shifting dynamics of global academic excellence, providing valuable insights into the evolving priorities and strengths of regions around the world.”
The article is based on data provided by the Academic Ranking of World Universities published by Shanghai Ranking Consultancy and covers the period 2017-2023.
The authors report that the number of Chinese universities in the top 10% has increased significantly while that of those in the USA and Europe has declined.
Turning to subject rankings, China is dominant in the fields of Engineering and Life Sciences, especially in new developing subjects like Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. This reflects China’s strategic priorities which emphasise investment in cutting edge technologies including robotics, energy, biotechnology and artificial intelligence.
The USA, however, continues to lead in the Social Sciences and Europe in Geography, Ecology, Administration, and Pharmacology. Other regions have excelled in Transportation Science, Nursing, and Hospitality and Tourism Management.
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