ISME Journal

Scope & Guideline

Advancing knowledge at the intersection of life sciences.

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of ISME Journal through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore ISME Journal in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1751-7362
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2007 to 2024
AbbreviationISME J / ISME J.
Frequency12 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressGREAT CLARENDON ST, OXFORD OX2 6DP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The ISME Journal focuses on the complex interactions within microbial communities and their environments, emphasizing the ecological, evolutionary, and functional dynamics that shape microbial diversity and biogeochemistry.
  1. Microbial Ecology and Evolution:
    The journal explores the ecology of microorganisms in various habitats, examining how microbial communities evolve and interact within their environments.
  2. Biogeochemical Cycles:
    Research often focuses on the role of microbes in biogeochemical processes, including nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur cycles, highlighting their importance in ecosystem functioning.
  3. Microbial Interactions and Community Dynamics:
    There is a strong emphasis on understanding interactions within microbial communities, including competition, cooperation, and the effects of predation and parasitism.
  4. Host-Microbe Interactions:
    The journal publishes studies on the relationships between microbes and their hosts, including plants and animals, elucidating the role of microbiomes in health and disease.
  5. Novel Microbial Metabolism and Functionality:
    Research featuring metabolic pathways and the functional capabilities of microbes, particularly in relation to environmental changes and stress responses, is a key focus.
  6. Microbial Responses to Environmental Stressors:
    Investigations into how microbial communities adapt to changing environmental conditions, such as climate change and pollutants, are frequently highlighted.
Recent publications in the ISME Journal reveal emerging trends and themes that highlight the evolving landscape of microbial ecology and its implications for broader ecological and environmental contexts.
  1. Metagenomics and Multi-Omics Approaches:
    There is an increasing trend towards using metagenomic and multi-omics methodologies to understand microbial community structure and function, allowing for deeper insights into microbial interactions and ecosystem processes.
  2. Microbiome Engineering and Synthetic Communities:
    Research on synthetic microbial communities and microbiome engineering is gaining traction, reflecting a growing interest in manipulating microbial interactions for applications in agriculture and health.
  3. Climate Change Impacts on Microbial Dynamics:
    Studies addressing how climate change affects microbial community dynamics and functions are emerging as a critical area of research, emphasizing the role of microbes in responding to environmental stressors.
  4. Cross-Kingdom Interactions:
    Research on interactions between microbial communities and higher organisms, including plants and animals, is trending, particularly in understanding how these relationships influence health and ecosystem resilience.
  5. Antibiotic Resistance and Microbial Ecology:
    The intersection of antibiotic resistance and microbial ecology is increasingly prominent, as studies explore how microbial communities adapt to antibiotic pressures and the implications for human health.

Declining or Waning

While the ISME Journal continues to thrive in many areas, some themes have shown signs of decline in recent publications, reflecting shifts in research focus within the field.
  1. Traditional Microbial Taxonomy:
    Research specifically focused on classical microbial taxonomy appears to be waning as the field moves towards more integrative approaches that combine genomic, ecological, and functional insights.
  2. Single-Species Studies:
    There is a noticeable reduction in publications focusing solely on individual microbial species, with more emphasis now placed on community-level interactions and dynamics.
  3. Static Models of Microbial Processes:
    Static models that do not account for temporal changes in microbial communities are becoming less common, as dynamic and predictive modeling approaches gain traction.

Similar Journals

TRENDS IN MICROBIOLOGY

Exploring the Dynamics of Infectious Diseases
Publisher: CELL PRESSISSN: 0966-842XFrequency: 12 issues/year

TRENDS IN MICROBIOLOGY is a premier academic journal published by CELL PRESS, renowned for its high-impact research contributions in the fields of microbiology, infectious diseases, medical microbiology, and virology. With an impressive impact factor and a notable Scopus ranking—placing it in the top tiers of its categories, including a remarkable Q1 status in multiple disciplines—this journal is essential for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to stay at the forefront of innovative microbial research and ongoing advancements in pathogen biology. Since its inception in 1993, TRENDS IN MICROBIOLOGY has provided a platform for thought-provoking reviews and critical insights, fostering discussions that shape the future of the microbiological sciences. Based in the United Kingdom, TRENDS IN MICROBIOLOGY continues to lead the way in disseminating vital knowledge within the global scientific community.

FEMS MICROBIOLOGY ECOLOGY

Transforming Ecological Understanding Through Microbial Insights
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESSISSN: 0168-6496Frequency: 12 issues/year

FEMS Microbiology Ecology is a prestigious journal published by Oxford University Press, specializing in the dynamic field of microbiology and its ecological implications. With an impressive impact factor and consistently ranked in the top quartiles (Q1) across multiple categories—including Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Ecology, and Microbiology—this journal serves as an essential resource for researchers and professionals aiming to advance their understanding of microbial interactions within ecosystems. Established in 1990 and spanning to 2024, FEMS Microbiology Ecology delivers cutting-edge research, reviews, and insightful discussions that illuminate the complex roles microorganisms play in environmental health and sustainability. Located in the United Kingdom, this journal provides a global platform for discourse, making significant contributions to both theoretical frameworks and practical applications in the biotech and environmental science sectors. Researchers and students alike will find a wealth of information that not only enriches their knowledge but also inspires innovative solutions for ecological challenges.

MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY

Exploring the Interactions that Shape Life
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0950-382XFrequency: 24 issues/year

MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY is a prestigious academic journal published by Wiley that has been at the forefront of research in the fields of microbiology and molecular biology since its inception in 1987. With an impressive Q1 rating in Microbiology and a Q2 rating in Molecular Biology for 2023, this journal serves as a vital platform for disseminating high-impact research that advances our understanding of microbial processes and interactions at the molecular level. The journal's ISSN is 0950-382X, and the E-ISSN is 1365-2958, making it easily accessible to a global audience of researchers, professionals, and students. Though not an Open Access journal, MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY remains committed to providing valuable insights and fostering knowledge exchange in the academic community. Situated in the United Kingdom and indexed in prominent databases like Scopus, the journal holds a strong standing, with current rankings reflecting its influential role in the academic landscape. Researchers in the field are invited to contribute and engage with cutting-edge discoveries that will shape the future of microbiological sciences.

Nature Microbiology

Unveiling the Secrets of Microbial Life
Publisher: NATURE PORTFOLIOISSN: 2058-5276Frequency: 12 issues/year

Nature Microbiology is a premier journal published by NATURE PORTFOLIO that has firmly established itself within the realms of microbiological research since its inception in 2016. Based in the United Kingdom, this prestigious journal specializes in the intricacies of applied microbiology, cell biology, genetics, immunology, and medical microbiology, making it a cornerstone for academics and professionals alike. With an impressive Scopus ranking placing it in the top tier across various relevant categories—such as rank #3 in Genetics and #2 in Applied Microbiology—it underscores the journal’s commitment to high-quality, impactful research. Although it operates under a subscription model, Nature Microbiology's broad Open Access policy facilitates greater dissemination and visibility for its authors. The journal's objectives are centered around publishing cutting-edge advancements that enhance our understanding of microbial life, its interactions, and applications in health and disease. As a Q1 journal across multiple disciplines, it holds immense significance for researchers, professionals, and students enthusiastic about the latest innovations and breakthroughs in microbiology.

Microbial Physiology

Empowering the Microbial Discourse for a Sustainable Future
Publisher: KARGERISSN: 2673-1665Frequency: 6 issues/year

Microbial Physiology is a premier, peer-reviewed journal published by KARGER, dedicated to advancing the field of microbiology through innovative research and reviews. With an ISSN of 2673-1665 and an E-ISSN of 2673-1673, the journal stands out in the academic landscape having established a strong track record since its inception in 2020, converging its scope until 2024. It proudly holds a Q2 category ranking in several key areas including Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, making it an essential resource for researchers and professionals in these disciplines. The journal provides open access options to ensure that cutting-edge findings are widely disseminated, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. As a vital contributor to the ongoing discourse in microbial physiology, the journal serves as a platform for novel discoveries and methodologies that can significantly impact health, industry, and environmental sustainability. Located in Basel, Switzerland, it brings together a global community of scholars eager to further explore the complexities of microbial life.

MICROBIOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Elevating Knowledge in Microbiology and Immunology
Publisher: ELSEVIER GMBHISSN: 0944-5013Frequency: 12 issues/year

MICROBIOLOGICAL RESEARCH, published by Elsevier GmbH, serves as a leading platform for advancements in the field of Microbiology, holding an impressive Q1 ranking in its category as of 2023. With an ISSN of 0944-5013 and E-ISSN 1618-0623, this journal has been instrumental in disseminating high-quality research since its inception in 1994 and continues to contribute significantly to the academic landscape through 2024. Positioned within the top 13% of publications in the Immunology and Microbiology category, ranked #24 out of 182 according to Scopus, it attracts the attention of researchers, professionals, and students alike. While the journal is not open access, it offers vital insights and peer-reviewed articles that drive innovation and exploration within microbiological research. Its rigorous selection process underscores the importance of quality and relevance in advancing knowledge in this dynamic field.

APPLIED AND ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY

Driving Impactful Discoveries in Applied Microbiology
Publisher: AMER SOC MICROBIOLOGYISSN: 0099-2240Frequency: 12 issues/year

Applied and Environmental Microbiology, published by the American Society for Microbiology, stands as a leading journal in the fields of applied microbiology and environmental science since its inception in 1976. With a prestigious Q1 quartile ranking across multiple categories including Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Ecology, and Food Science, this journal consistently disseminates high-impact research that drives innovation and advances our understanding of microbial interactions within our ecosystems and industries. As ranked by Scopus, it exhibits prominent rankings in various related fields, underscoring its critical role in shaping contemporary microbiological research. Researchers, professionals, and students alike can stay abreast of groundbreaking studies while contributing to a vast body of knowledge that spans diverse aspects of microbiology, biotechnology, and ecology, ultimately contributing to sustainable practices. Join the community of dedicated scholars and explore vital research findings that impact both environmental health and technological advancement.

ISME Communications

Empowering Researchers to Shape a Greener Tomorrow
Publisher: SPRINGERNATUREISSN: Frequency: 1 issue/year

ISME Communications is an esteemed journal dedicated to advancing the field of environmental microbiology and its multifaceted intersections with ecology, biogeochemistry, and biotechnology. Published by SpringerNature, this journal aims to disseminate cutting-edge research and innovative insights that address pressing global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches. With a commitment to open access, it provides a platform for researchers, professionals, and students to share their findings widely, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. Although the journal is relatively new, its potential for impactful contributions is substantial, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in the microbial processes that underpin ecosystem functioning and sustainability. The journal not only prioritizes the rigorous peer-review process but also supports the academic community's pursuit of excellence in environmental science.

Current Research in Microbial Sciences

Pioneering Research for a Healthier Tomorrow
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 2666-5174Frequency: 1 issue/year

Current Research in Microbial Sciences is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal published by Elsevier, focusing on the dynamic and rapidly advancing fields of microbiology and infectious diseases. With an ISSN of 2666-5174, this journal has established itself as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, offering the latest findings and insights from 2020 to 2024. The journal holds a significant position in the academic landscape, achieving a Q2 ranking across multiple categories, including Immunology and Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, and Medical Microbiology, demonstrating its impact in these critical areas of study. With impressive Scopus rankings—such as being placed in the 94th percentile for Immunology and Microbiology—current research is well-supported by a thriving scientific community. Although the journal is not open access, it serves as a vital platform for disseminating high-quality research and fostering collaboration within the microbial sciences. Engaging with this journal enables professionals and researchers to stay abreast of innovations and contribute to the collective body of knowledge that shapes our understanding of microbial interactions and infectious diseases.

Geobiology

Connecting Biology and Geology for a Sustainable Future
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1472-4677Frequency: 6 issues/year

Geobiology, published by WILEY, is a prestigious journal at the forefront of interdisciplinary research in Earth and Planetary Sciences, Ecology, and Environmental Science. With an ISSN of 1472-4677 and an E-ISSN of 1472-4669, this journal has achieved remarkable recognition as evidenced by its Q1 categorization in multiple relevant fields, including Earth and Planetary Sciences, Ecology, and Environmental Science, according to the 2023 quartile rankings. Covering a diverse range of topics from biogeochemical cycles to the impacts of climate change on biodiversity, Geobiology serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal boasts impressive Scopus rankings, placing it within the top tiers of its fields, which is indicative of its significant influence and contribution to advancing knowledge. Although it does not operate under an Open Access model, Geobiology ensures widespread reach and accessibility, allowing for impactful dialogues within the scientific community. Researchers are encouraged to submit their findings and engage with cutting-edge studies to advance our understanding of the interplay between biological and geological processes.