On the use of the h-index in evaluating chemical research

Abstract

Background: The h index bibliometric indicator for evaluating scientists and scientific institutions plays an increasingly important role in evaluating contemporary scientific research, including chemistry.Results: Citations are meaningful. The best way of measuring performance is to use the informed peer review, where peers judge on the base of a bibliometric report, once the limits and advantages of bibliometric indicators have been thoroughly understood.Conclusions: Expanded and improved use of bibliometric indicators such as the h index in a useful and wise manner is suggested. © 2013 Ciriminna and Pagliaro; licensee Chemistry Central Ltd.