Publications have been regarded as the most significant output indicating research performance of universities. This paper uses ISI Essential Science Indicators (ESI) database to investigate the academic performance of research-oriented universities in Taiwan using bibliometric method form both the quantitative and qualitative perspectives. It collects research data for 11 years from 1993 to 2003. The performance indicators applied in this study includes the number to top papers. The research performance and strength of those universities are revealed in this study. It is found that National Taiwan University leads among these universities though individual university still shows strengths in various specific fields.