The number of Algerian researchers listed among the world's top 2% most influential scientists has increased to 101 in the 2026 edition, up from 80 in 2025, according to data published by Top Scientists. This represents a 26.2% increase, with 21 more researchers making the list. The growth is part of an upward trend seen in recent years, with Algeria ranking 66th globally in terms of the number of researchers on the list.
The 2026 edition saw 55 Algerian institutions represented, up from 42 in 2025, a 31% increase. University of Mohamed Boudiaf in Mila topped the list of Algerian institutions, with seven researchers, followed by University of Chadli Khettabi in Ouargla with six researchers. Other top institutions included University of Djillali Liabes in Sidi Bel Abbes and University of Hassiba Benbouali in Chlef, each with five researchers.
The data shows a steady increase in the number of Algerian researchers on the list between 2020 and 2026. The numbers rose from 30 in 2020 to 47 in 2021, 53 in 2022, 56 in 2023, 68 in 2024, and 80 in 2025, before reaching 101 in 2026. This represents a more than threefold increase compared to six years ago.
Algeria also saw an increase in the number of researchers listed in the career-long impact ranking, with 44 researchers making the list in 2026, up from 38 in 2025. This represents a 14% increase. University of Djillali Liabes in Sidi Bel Abbes topped this list, with four researchers, followed by University of Blida 1 and University of Mustapha Boussoul in Mascara, each with three researchers.
The rankings are based on a database developed by researchers from Stanford University and Elsevier, using bibliometric indicators such as the number of citations, the H-Index, and co-authorship. The database covers 20 main fields and 174 subfields, with researchers selected based on their presence in the top 100,000 globally or ranking in the top 2% in their subfield.
Algerian researchers on the list specialize in various fields, including applied physics, engineering, chemistry, environmental science, mathematics, and computer science. Some researchers achieved high global rankings, with the top three Algerian researchers in the 2026 edition ranking around 6,000-7,000 globally.
The growth in the number of Algerian researchers on the list reflects the country's increasing presence in the global scientific community. The rankings provide a measure of the impact and influence of researchers' work, and Algeria's increasing representation is seen as a positive trend for the country's scientific development.
Key points
- Algerian researchers on the list specialize in various fields, including applied physics, engineering, and chemistry.
- The 2026 edition saw 55 Algerian institutions represented, up from 42 in 2025.
- The number of Algerian researchers listed among the world's top 2% most influential scientists has increased to 101 in the 2026 edition.
