Dr. Walter Siqueira, Dean of the College of Dentistry, Dr. Liran Levin, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, Dr. Andrew Leask, Professor, and PhD candidate Dr. Paras Ahmad

USask College of Dentistry Researchers Among World’s Most Influential Scientists

Four researchers from the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Dentistry have been named among the world’s most influential scientists, according to a recent study conducted by Stanford University.

By Duane Krip

The 2024 Stanford/ Elsevier Top 2% Scientists List, published this month, recognizes individuals whose scholarly work has had a significant impact in their respective fields. This prestigious ranking draws from the Scopus database, a leading repository of research citations, to identify the most cited scholars globally.

This year’s list includes Dr. Walter Siqueira, Dean of the College of Dentistry, Dr. Liran Levin, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, Dr. Andrew Leask, a professor at the college, and PhD candidate Dr. Paras Ahmad, who is supervised by Dr. Siqueira. Their inclusion in this elite group underscores the College of Dentistry’s growing influence in the global scientific community.

The Top 2% Scientists List is widely regarded as one of the most esteemed benchmarks of academic excellence. Researchers who make the list are recognized for their extensive contributions to their disciplines, with citations of their work signaling the significance and far-reaching impact of their research. Being included in the top 2% not only highlights a scientist’s dedication to advancing knowledge but also often leads to greater visibility in both academic and industry circles.

“This kind of recognition can open doors to further opportunities, including increased funding for research, collaborations with other leading scientists, and invitations to present at international conferences” states Dr. Walter Siqueira, Dean of the College of Dentistry.

The ranking serves as a valuable tool for institutions and governments alike, helping them assess the strength of their research programs and identify areas of influence.

In total, 108 researchers from USask were listed on Top 2% Scientists List in 2024. This recognition reflects the university’s commitment to research excellence and its role as a global leader in scientific advancement. The College of Dentistry’s four honorees highlight how impactful work in the dental sciences can resonate far beyond the boundaries of their specific field, contributing to global progress in health and well-being.

Dr. Siqueira, Dr. Levin, Dr. Leask, and Dr. Ahmad’s recognition shines a spotlight on USask’s research community, reinforcing the importance of continued investment in scientific inquiry and innovation. Their achievements not only enhance the College of Dentistry’s reputation but also bring visibility to the university's broader contributions to the world of research.