Twenty-four researchers from 13 units of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) have been recognised among the world’s most influential scientists, according to an international ranking based on scientific citations. The study, conducted by researchers from Stanford University in the United States and published by Elsevier on 7 October 2026, highlights the global contribution of Brazilian agricultural research.

The recognition reflects the impact of Embrapa’s research across agriculture, livestock, forestry, biotechnology and environmental sustainability, reinforcing Brazil’s position as an important contributor to global agricultural science.

How the Global Scientific Ranking Works

The ranking uses data from the Scopus database to evaluate researchers based on their scientific impact throughout their careers up to the end of 2025, as well as their research performance during 2025.

The assessment covers 20 scientific fields and 174 subfields. It considers indicators such as the h-index, an adjusted hm-index, citation patterns and a composite indicator that evaluates the influence of scientific publications.

The selection includes the world’s 100,000 most influential researchers or scientists ranked among the top 2% of their respective subfields. The calculations were based on Scopus author profiles available as of 1 August 2026.

Research Driving Sustainable Agriculture

Among the recognised scientists is Mariangela Hungria from Embrapa Soybean, whose research focuses on microbial biodiversity, soil microbiology and biological nitrogen fixation (BNF).

Her work has contributed significantly to the development of microbial technologies for soybean cultivation, including the use of beneficial bacteria and co-inoculation approaches. These technologies have also supported applications in beans, corn, wheat and pastures, helping improve biological nitrogen supply and agricultural productivity.

Other researchers are contributing to important areas such as biofertilizers, biological pest control, microbial ecology, nanotechnology, plant genetics, precision agriculture and sustainable use of agricultural biomass.

Key Research Areas Represented

• Biological nitrogen fixation: Microbial technologies that help crops obtain nitrogen naturally and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers.
• Biofertilizers and microbial solutions: Research into beneficial microorganisms and their applications in sustainable crop production.
• Biological crop protection: Development of microbial solutions for managing agricultural pests and diseases.
• Digital agriculture: Use of artificial intelligence, machine learning and imaging technologies for crop monitoring and disease detection.
• Biotechnology and nanotechnology: Development of advanced materials, sensors and technologies for agricultural applications.
• Soil and environmental research: Studies on microbial communities, nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration and climate resilience.

Strengthening Brazil’s Global Agricultural Research Position

Embrapa’s continued presence in the international ranking demonstrates the importance of long-term investment in agricultural research and scientific collaboration. Its researchers are addressing some of the major challenges facing global agriculture, including climate change, food security, sustainable production, energy transitions and environmental protection.

The recognition also highlights the importance of connecting scientific research with practical agricultural applications, helping translate innovation into solutions for farmers and food production systems.

Source: Embrapa – Official Announcement