These Indian dermatologists made it to Stanford University’s list of top scientists

In a proud moment for Indian science (and skin lovers everywhere), 21 of the country’s leading dermatologists have made it to Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Scientists 2025 list—a global ranking that highlights the most influential researchers across disciplines. Curated by Professor John P.A. Ioannidis and published by Elsevier, the list analyses data from over eight million scientists worldwide, considering citations, h-index, co-authorship, and overall research impact.

In simpler terms: these are the experts whose work has changed how the world understands skin. And for Indian dermatology—a field that often sits in the shadow of cardiology or oncology—this recognition is a big win. From breakthroughs in pigmentation and vitiligo to advances in aesthetic medicine and public health, these doctors are putting Indian skin science firmly on the global map.

Dr Maninder Singh Setia

A consultant dermatologist and epidemiologist, Dr Setia bridges medicine with data science. Known for his expertise in biostatistics, large-scale population research, and meta-analyses, he’s helped bring statistical rigour to Indian dermatology research.

Ranking: 33,280 (excluding self-citations), 38,398 (including).

Dr Shyam Bhanushankar Verma

A leading academic from Vadodara, Dr Verma is celebrated for his work on steroid-modified fungal infections and rare clinical cases that challenge conventional dermatology. His research also explores the social dimensions of skin health.

Ranking: 98,958 (excluding), 93,070 (including).

Dr Feroze Kaliyadan

Currently heading a university department in Saudi Arabia, Dr Kaliyadan’s work spans acne, pigmentation, and hair disorders, along with innovative dermatosurgical techniques. He’s known for his clear, practical teaching style and prolific body of research.

Ranking: 129,314 (excluding), 139,654 (including).

Dr Amrinderjit Kanwar

Founder of AJ Kanwar Clinic in Chandigarh and former PGIMER professor, Dr Kanwar is one of India’s most respected dermatologists. His pioneering work in vitiligo, pemphigus, and autoimmune skin diseases has guided generations of clinicians.

Ranking: 174,580 (excluding), 206,418 (including).

Prof Archana Singal

A professor at Delhi’s UCMS, Prof Singal is widely recognised for her work in tropical dermatology, fungal infections, and neglected diseases like cutaneous tuberculosis. She’s authored multiple textbooks and mentors young researchers nationwide.

Ranking: 186,628 (excluding), 194,641 (including).

Prof Virendra Nath Sehgal

A legend in Indian dermatology, Prof Sehgal’s pioneering research in cutaneous tuberculosis and his decades of teaching have shaped dermatology as a discipline in India.

Ranking: 209,324 (excluding), 243,654 (including).

Dr Anant Dhondopant Patil

An academic pharmacologist with wide-ranging collaborations in dermatology, Dr Patil’s studies bridge drug safety, allergy, and clinical efficacy—helping improve how therapies are assessed and prescribed.

Ranking: 225,868 (excluding), 252,162 (including).

Dr Vinod Kumar Sharma

Former head of dermatology at AIIMS, Dr Sharma is a pioneer in contact dermatitis and skin allergy research. His contributions to national guidelines and dermatology education remain unparalleled.

Ranking: 232,674 (excluding), 222,073 (including).

Dr Ananta Khurana

With over two decades in teaching and clinical practice, Dr Khurana has advanced research in leprosy, paediatric dermatology, and venereology. Her balanced focus on patient care and scientific precision sets her apart.

Ranking: 218,254 (excluding), 232,481 (including).

Dr Kabir Sardana

Known for his deep knowledge of acne, hormonal dermatology, and immunological pathways like JAK/STAT, Dr Sardana has made significant contributions to evidence-based dermatology in India.

Ranking: 219,155 (excluding), 203,065 (including).

Dr Rashmi Sarkar

Professor at Maulana Azad Medical College, Dr Sarkar’s research on pigmentary disorders and women’s skin health has been cited globally. She’s also a strong advocate for women’s leadership in dermatology.

Ranking: 234,288 (excluding), 242,013 (including).

Dr Vikram Kumar Mahajan

Based in Himachal Pradesh, Dr Mahajan’s work spans leprosy, psoriasis, and allergic contact dermatitis, blending lab-based research with community outreach.

Ranking: 244,643 (excluding), 268,044 (including).

Dr Devinder Mohan Thappa

A veteran educator at JIPMER, Dr Thappa has authored over 500 papers on STDs, clinical dermatology, and mycoses. His academic rigour continues to inspire the next generation of researchers.

Ranking: 246,900 (excluding), 286,928 (including).

Dr Anupam Das

A prolific young academic, Dr Das works on skin, hair, and nail diseases—combining medical dermatology with procedural innovations in peels, PRP, and aesthetic treatments.

Ranking: 248,757 (excluding), 271,196 (including).

Dr Davinder Parsad

Globally recognised for his groundbreaking work in vitiligo and pigment cell biology, Dr Parsad has shaped new treatment approaches and fostered international collaborations.

Ranking: 253,936 (excluding), 264,155 (including).

Dr Niti Khunger

An authority in cosmetic dermatology and dermatosurgery, Dr Khunger’s textbooks and clinical research have made aesthetic procedures safer and more standardised across India.

Ranking: 254,047 (excluding), 273,290 (including).

Dr Tasleem Arif

Known for his innovative clinical signs and surgical techniques, Dr Arif’s studies on scleroderma, vitiligo grafting, and autoimmune conditions have earned widespread recognition.

Ranking: 285,205 (excluding), 238,017 (including).

Dr Venkataram Mysore

Founder of Venkat Charmalaya in Bengaluru, Dr Mysore is one of India’s foremost experts in hair transplantation, dermatopathology, and aesthetic dermatology.

Ranking: 300,159 (excluding), 346,212 (including).

Dr Jaishree Sharad

Celebrity dermatologist, author, and global speaker, Dr Sharad has helped bring science-backed skincare into mainstream India while mentoring the next generation of aesthetic doctors.

Ranking: 319,565 (excluding), 368,284 (including).

Dr Chander Grover

An academic leader known for her pioneering work in nail surgery and infections, Dr Grover has been instrumental in shaping modern dermatosurgical education.

Ranking: 367,096 (excluding), 330,499 (including).

Dr Asheesh Gupta

An emerging name in clinical dermatology, Dr Gupta’s diverse body of research has earned him consistently high citation scores and growing international recognition.

Ranking: 225,136 (excluding), 246,807 (including).

Lead image: Pexels

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