For the sixth time: Konstanz pioneer in collective behaviour research honoured as one of the most influential researchers of our time.

Collective-behaviour-pioneer Iain Couzin has for the sixth time been honoured on the prestigious “Global Highly Cited Researchers” list by Clarivate Analytics. This recognition highlights the significant global impact of his research on the fields of collective behaviour, underscoring the far-reaching influence of his scholarly contributions. Iain Couzin is Speaker of the Cluster of Excellence Collective Behaviour, Professor of Biodiversity and Collective Behaviour at the University of Konstanz and Director at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (MPI-AB).

The annual list, compiled by Clarivate Analytics, using Web of Science data, identifies scientists and researchers across the world whose work ranks within the top 1% by citations. Inclusion on this list signals that a researcher’s work has been frequently cited by fellow experts, marking it as a foundational resource in advancing knowledge and innovation. Couzin’s presence on the list in the “Cross-Field” category is especially noteworthy, as it acknowledges his contributions across multiple scientific disciplines.

This recognition underscores Couzin’s dedication to advancing understanding in collective animal behaviour. Couzin says: “I am delighted that our work in the Cluster of Excellence is being recognized globally, and helping shape the emerging interdisciplinary science of collective behaviour. It would not have been possible without the uniquely collaborative and vibrant research environment at the University of Konstanz.”

Uncovering the principles of collective behaviour
“The University of Konstanz is immensely proud of Professor Couzin's remarkable achievements and his continued recognition as a highly cited researcher. His pioneering studies consistently advance global research, setting high standards and inspiring scientific exploration across diverse fields,” says Dirk Leuffen, vice Rector for Research at the University of Konstanz.

Iain Couzin's work seeks to uncover the core principles behind how collective behaviour has evolved in nature. “Through collaboration with computer scientists, neuroscientists, psychologists, and physicists, we have pioneered technologies – such as ‘holographic’ virtual reality for animals and an ‘Imaging Hangar’ capable of tracking tens of thousands of swarming animals simultaneously”, says Couzin. “These tools enable us to investigate the complex workings of animal collectives in unprecedented ways, resulting in a new experimentally validated theory for understanding both individual and collective decision-making, as well as the emergence of collective motion in nature.”


Key facts:

• Iain D. Couzin is Speaker of the Cluster of Excellence Collective Behaviour, Professor of Biodiversity and Collective Behaviour at the University of Konstanz and Director of the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (MPI-AB).
• This is the sixth time Iain Couzin has been recognized as a “Highly Cited Researcher”.
• “Global Highly Cited Researchers” list by Clarivate Analytics: https://clarivate.com/highly-cited-researchers/