Three University of Pretoria (UP) researchers from the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) have been named in the 2025 Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers list, a global benchmark of scientific impact. This list identifies scientists whose publications rank among the top 1% most cited worldwide, reflecting sustained influence and leadership in their fields.

Those included in the list are Professors Mike Wingfield and Cobus Visagie of UP, and Prof Pedro Crous of the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute and an extraordinary professor at UP. Prof Wingfield and Prof Visagie are among only 11 South African university researchers included this year, highlighting the country’s significant contribution to global science. Prof Wingfield is recognised in the Cross-Field category, while Prof Visagie is listed under Plant and Animal Sciences.

“It is truly humbling to be recognised among the world’s most cited researchers,” said Prof Wingfield, who is included in the list for the ninth consecutive year. “This honour reflects not only my work but the incredible collaboration and support from FABI and the University of Pretoria community.”

Prof Visagie joins the list for the first time for his pioneering work on fungal biodiversity, taxonomy and food security, particularly mycotoxins. “Being included for the first time is an immense privilege,” he said. “It reinforces the importance of our research on fungal biodiversity and food security, and I am grateful to be part of a team that strives for global impact.”

“We are immensely proud of our colleagues for this outstanding achievement,” said Prof Sunil Maharaj, Vice-Principal: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Education at UP. “Their inclusion on the Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers list is an excellent demonstration of the world-class research being conducted at the University of Pretoria. By consistently raising the UP flag and showcasing the strength of African scholarship on the global stage, they inspire us all to strive for excellence and impact.”

Prof Bernard Slippers, Director of FABI, noted that the inclusion of three institute-affiliated scientists highlights FABI’s growing global footprint and reaffirms UP’s commitment to producing high-impact, internationally relevant research.

In addition to these honourees, UP-affiliated Prof Yves Van de Peer (Ghent University, Belgium) and Prof Rashid Sumaila (University of British Columbia, Canada) were also recognised, reflecting not only continental excellence but also the strength of the international collaborative research environment and UP’s dedication to advancing science with global relevance.