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SLU's Michael Vaughn, Ph.D., Named a Top-Cited Scientist by Research.com

by Jacob Born on 06/24/2022

06/24/2022

Michael Vaughn, Ph.D., was recognized by Research.com on its Top 1,000 Scientists for 2022 as one of the most-cited researchers in the area of social sciences and humanities. The professor of social work was ranked 92nd in the United States and 183rd in the world, placing him in the top one percent of his peers. 

Michael Vaughn
Michael Vaughn, Ph.D., is a professor of social work at Saint Louis University, SLU file photo.

“Mike is clearly one of the most prolific scholars of our day,” said Noelle Fearn, Ph.D., director of the School of Social Work. “His leadership and expertise in the research enterprise is wide-ranging and the impact of his work is felt across multiple, broad and intersecting disciplinary fields.

“Empirically, he is among the most productive and highly cited researchers in the fields of social work, criminology and criminal justice. His scholarly reputation is renowned, but even more importantly, he is a supportive, generous, and gracious colleague, friend, and mentor.”

Research.com’s ranking is based on the h-index, a metric which reflects the impact of researchers’ publications and citations.

Vaughn’s work includes criminology, juvenile and criminal justice, antisocial behavior and psychopathy; school dropout and educational risk; evidence synthesis and evidence-based policy and practice; environmental science and health; the epidemiology of substance use, crime, violence, and health outcomes, and more. His research has been covered by outlets such as NBC News, CBS News, CNN, USA Today, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, National Geographic, Reuters, National Public Radio and more.

“The School of Social Work, the University and especially our students are so very lucky to have Mike as a teacher, advisor and colleague,” Fearn added. “I remain in awe of his productivity and am so grateful for his friendship and tireless commitment to the School of Social Work.”

Research.com analyzed more than 10,000 scientists with roles within the social sciences and humanities, examining each person’s contributions within their respective disciplines and awards, achievements and publications in major journals within the field.