The University of the South Pacific (USP) is celebrating a remarkable achievement as five of its distinguished academics have been named among the world’s Top 2% of scientists for 2025 by Stanford University. This prestigious recognition highlights the significant impact and global influence of their research efforts across diverse fields.
This achievement marks a historic milestone for USP, boasting the highest number of its academics ever featured on this list, and underscores the university’s growing international presence and commitment to research excellence. The academics honored include Professor Gurmeet Singh in Business & Management, Professor M. Rafiuddin Ahmed in Mechanical Engineering & Transport, Professor Surendra Prasad in Analytical Chemistry, along with Dr. Shavneet Sharma and Dr. Vikas Gupta in Sport, Leisure & Tourism.
Special acknowledgment goes to Professor Surendra Prasad and Professor M. Rafiuddin Ahmed, who have been celebrated for their career-long contributions, being recognized for the fourth consecutive year. Their enduring contributions reflect a sustained global impact in their respective disciplines, affirming their leadership and legacy in academic research.
This recognition resonates with USP’s mission to produce world-class research that not only advances intellectual discourse but also addresses the unique challenges and explores opportunities in the Pacific region. USP’s strategic focus on both globally relevant and locally impactful research is clearly reflected in this achievement. The university is leading efforts to address critical issues such as sustainable development, climate change, business innovation, and public health, thereby crafting academic and practical solutions for the region.
The Stanford Top 2% Scientists List is compiled by researchers from Stanford University using Scopus data—one of the most comprehensive bibliometric databases—and ranks scientists based on metrics such as total citations, h-index, and long-term career impact. Inclusion on this list is a highly esteemed honor, signifying that these researchers are among the most influential and highly cited scientists worldwide.
This recognition of USP is mirrored by its ascent in global academic rankings, strengthening its reputation as a premier institution for higher education and research in the Pacific and beyond. The university continues its upward trajectory in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and Impact Rankings, underlining its dedication to excellence.
USP remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering an environment of academic rigor and innovation, inspiring future generations of Pacific scholars, and making substantial contributions to global knowledge and development. This prestigious acknowledgment of its academics highlights both the current impact and promising future of the university and its vibrant community.