University of the South Pacific Researchers Named to List
Four faculty members were recognized on the latest World’s Top 2% Scientists list for their research impact.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Environmental
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Four researchers from The University of the South Pacific have been named to the prestigious World’s Top 2% Scientists list. The recognition highlights their significant contributions to fields ranging from renewable energy to antimicrobial resistance.
Why it matters
The list utilizes research citation data to identify scientists with the highest levels of international influence. This achievement underscores the growing global academic contributions coming from Pacific Island research institutions.
The list identifies the top 2% of researchers worldwide based on standardized citation metrics. Currently, The University of the South Pacific is also advancing a US$3.8 million project focused on seawater air conditioning research.
The players
The University of the South Pacific
This regional university serves twelve Pacific Island countries and is a primary hub for scientific and academic research in the South Pacific.
Professor Gurmeet Singh
He is a faculty member specializing in digital technology adoption, consumer behavior, sustainable business practices, and tourism management.
Professor M. Rafiuddin Ahmed
He is a researcher focused on developing renewable energy solutions specifically tailored for Pacific Island nations.
Dr Shavneet Sharma
His academic work examines consumer behavior, tourism trends, and how humans interact with artificial intelligence.
Dr Ashok Kumar
He conducts research into antimicrobial resistance and the study of microorganisms found in mangrove-associated lichens.
The details
Professors Gurmeet Singh and M. Rafiuddin Ahmed, along with Dr Shavneet Sharma and Dr Ashok Kumar, were honored for their diverse work. Their research areas include sustainable business practices, renewable energy options for Pacific Island countries, human interaction with artificial intelligence, and antimicrobial resistance.
Timeline
Professor M. Rafiuddin Ahmed has appeared on the list annually since 2020.
Professor Gurmeet Singh has appeared on the list in both 2025 and 2026.
The university officially announced the names of the selected researchers on October 30, 2026.
The Big Picture
The recognition of these faculty members extends the academic influence of The University of the South Pacific on the global stage. This achievement marks a significant milestone in validating the international research impact of the institution's ongoing scholarly work.
The researchers provide their findings directly to national energy departments to assist with regional renewable energy planning. These efforts are expected to lead to lower energy costs and reduced carbon emissions through the implementation of new systems.
The takeaway
This recognition highlights the importance of citation impact as a metric for evaluating global academic contributions. Readers can follow university research portals to stay informed about upcoming developments in regional sustainability and technology.
Further reading
Learn more about local scientific contributions at the Environmental research section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by SolomonTimes.
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