A Bangladeshi, Saidur Rahman, Secures Place on World’s Top Scientists List

Professor Dr. Saidur Rahman, a Malaysian-based Bangladeshi scientist renowned in the international research community, has once again earned a place among the world’s leading scientists. In recognition of his sustained research excellence and academic contributions, Dr. Rahman has been ranked first in Malaysia, second in Asia, and seventh globally in the field of Mechanical Engineering according to the 2026 AD Scientific Index.

The latest AD Scientific Index 2026 evaluated 33,371 scientists worldwide in Engineering & Technology, specifically in Mechanical Engineering, placing Professor Rahman among the elite. Notably, he maintained the same seventh position globally in 2025, demonstrating remarkable consistency and sustained impact in his research.

Professor Rahman’s influence extends beyond rankings. According to ScholarGPS 2025, he was ranked the world’s leading scientist in Sustainable and Renewable Energy research. That same year, a joint analysis by Stanford University and Elsevier placed him at the top among Malaysian scientists within the global top 2% in Energy research.

His contributions to education and innovation have also been widely recognised. Sunway University awarded him the Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Award and a Student Appreciation Award for teaching. Additionally, in 2025, he received the Obada Award in the ‘Distinguished Scientist’ category—one of only eight global recipients that year in science, engineering, and technology.

Professor Rahman’s research impact is substantial. According to Google Scholar, his H-index stands at 145, with over 86,000 citations. Born in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, and an alumnus of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), he now serves as a professor at Sunway University, Malaysia.

His past accolades include recognition as a world-leading researcher by Clarivate Analytics (2014–2021) for being among the top 1% of researchers globally. He also holds records for first-place achievements in MXene-based nanomaterial research in Malaysia (Scopus) and nanofluid research globally (Web of Science).

Beyond research, Dr. Rahman actively mentors young scientists, sharing insights through online seminars, social media, and a YouTube channel. He has personally invested over USD 1.5 million to establish a state-of-the-art laboratory at Sunway University focusing on energy technologies, advanced materials, solar power, energy storage, and clean water development.

In recognition of his contribution to the national economy, the Government of Bangladesh awarded him the Commercially Important Person (CIP) honour in December 2022. Reflecting on his achievements, Professor Rahman stated, “This success is not the result of a single individual but a collective effort of students, research teams, colleagues, institutions, and funding bodies.” Observers note that his accomplishments not only signify personal excellence but also strengthen Malaysia’s position in global research and higher education.

Key Achievements of Professor Dr. Saidur Rahman