Our professors named Highly Cited Researchers

Three University of Southern Queensland researchers are among the world’s most highly cited scientists.

Professors Hao Wang (Materials Science), Pingan Song (Engineering) and Stuart Biddle (Social Sciences) were named in the Highly Cited Researchers 2023 list for their exceptional global influence and research work during the past decade.

Produced by analytics company Clarivate, the list identifies scientists who authored papers that rank in the top 1% by citations in their field and publication year in the Web of Science citation index. Worldwide, 6,849 researchers were named on the 2023 list.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor John Bell commended the trio for being among more than 300 Australian researchers listed.

“It is a remarkable achievement to have three academics from the University of Southern Queensland on this list, which positions them in the highest impact rank in their research community,” Professor Bell said.

“This outstanding result demonstrates our commitment to research excellence and performance in highly regarded research publications.”

It’s the first time professors Wang and Song have been on the exclusive Highly Cited Researchers list, while Professor Biddle has appeared on the list from 2018-2021.

Professor Wang’s research focuses on green concretes and carbon fibre composites.

“There were very few composite scientists on the list, so this is great recognition for UniSQ’s composites research,” he said.

“Our research on green concretes, which uses industry wastes, such as fly ash and slag, to make concrete, has contributed to many significant projects, including the Wellcamp Airport in Toowoomba.

“Recently, we’ve been involved in the development of carbon fibre composite materials, which has made great success in aerospace.”

Professor Song has been working on the development of fire retardants, polymers and polymer composites for more than 15 years.

“I’m excited to be recognised by the global community for my contribution to research,” he said.

“However, this represents a stage of my achievements in my academic career, and remaining on this list requires continuous research endeavour in the future.

“I am most proud of my contribution to developing eco-benign fire retardants, fire coatings and fire-retardant materials, and high-performance polymeric materials.

“This work aims to create a fire-resilient community and to save lives and properties by mitigating fire risks.”

Professor Biddle’s most cited papers vary from his work with the global physical activity guidelines, the role of physical activity in young people’s mental health, and the effects of sedentary behaviour.

“It’s always good to see that your work is well cited as it indicates that the paper has been read and has an impact,” he said.

“I am pleased to have contributed to the growing literature on the important health benefits of physical activity, including reducing sedentary time.”

Learn more about Research at the University of Southern Queensland.