Two professors at Florida State University have been recognized as among the world’s most highly cited researchers, an honor that places them in the top 1% of scientists and scholars whose work has had significant influence in their respective fields.
Thomas Joiner, a professor in the Department of Psychology, and A. Stewart Fotheringham, a professor in the Department of Geography, were named by Clarivate for producing multiple highly cited papers over the past decade. This recognition is given to researchers whose publications rank in the top 1% by citations for their field and year in the Web of Science Core Collection. The distinction is awarded to about one out of every 1,000 researchers worldwide.
Joiner’s research focuses on understanding mechanisms leading to suicide and developing strategies for prevention across various populations, including military personnel and first responders. He is known for his work on the interpersonal theory of suicide, which has become a key framework in contemporary suicide research. At Florida State University, Joiner directs the Laboratory for the Study and Prevention of Suicide-Related Conditions and Behaviors and serves as co-director of the Military Suicide Research Consortium funded by the Department of Defense.
Brad Schmidt, chair of the Department of Psychology at FSU’s College of Arts & Sciences, said: “Thomas is not only a prolific researcher, but his work has profoundly influenced practicing clinicians. We are doing a better job assessing for suicide and bringing it out of the shadows because of the bright light that Thomas has shone on it with his theory and empirical work over his career. His research, including the many students he has inspired, has substantially influenced the way we think about, assess and treat suicide risk.”
A. Stewart Fotheringham holds the Krafft Professorship in Spatial Data Science within FSU’s Department of Geography and is director of its Spatial Data Science Center. He is also a member of the National Academy of Sciences. Fotheringham’s research applies advanced statistical methods to spatial data to analyze how location influences social, economic, and health outcomes. His contributions include spatial interaction modeling and local statistical analysis.
Anne Chin, chair of FSU’s Department of Geography, commented: “Stewart has transformed how researchers and policymakers understand the role of location in complex societal issues. His innovative work in spatial data analytics has not only advanced our tools, but it has also provided practical insights into a range of issues that include public health, urban development and social patterns. Through his research and mentorship, Stewart has shaped a generation of scholars and left a lasting mark on the field of geography. The advances and approaches that he has championed will continue to lead us into meeting the global challenges of tomorrow.”
The recognition highlights Florida State University’s growing profile in research that informs clinical practice, public policy, and real-world decision making.
