GUILIN, China - A Chinese university's physics research has been recognized among the world's elite. Guangxi Normal University (GXNU) has entered the global top 1% in the Essential Science Indicators (ESI) for Physics, a key benchmark of high-impact scientific research.

The ranking, based on data from analytics firm Clarivate, places GXNU's physics work in the company of the world's most frequently cited and influential research in the field. This marks the fifth discipline from the university to achieve this status, following Chemistry, Engineering, Computer Science, and Materials Science.

From Core Theory to National Strategy

The achievement is the result of a sustained, strategic focus by GXNU's School of Physical Science and Technology. For years, the school has aligned its research programs with both cutting-edge scientific frontiers and national technological needs.

Faculty research has driven progress in several key areas:

Nuclear & Particle Physics: Investigating the fundamental forces and components of the universe.

Theoretical Physics: Developing models to explain complex physical phenomena.

Condensed Matter & Materials Physics: Exploring the properties of solids and liquids to discover new materials.

Optics & Photonics: Advancing research in light and its applications.

This targeted approach has proven successful. In the last five years alone, researchers have secured more than 140 competitive grants, including over 40 from prestigious national-level programs.

What ESI's Top 1% Means

The ESI ranking is more than just a statistic. It is a globally recognized indicator that a research institution's publications are cited significantly more often than average by fellow scientists worldwide. Earning a spot in the top 1% signals that a university's work is helping to shape the global conversation in its field.

This milestone validates our strategy and the hard work of our researchers, said a university dean. It confirms that our physics research has reached an international level of quality and impact, which energizes our entire academic community.

The recognition provides a powerful foundation for GXNU to attract further talent, forge new international partnerships, and deepen its contributions to fundamental and applied physics. It underscores China's growing strength in producing world-class basic scientific research beyond its major metropolitan hubs.