PLOS BIOLOGY

Scope & Guideline

Connecting Researchers through Open Access Discoveries

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of PLOS BIOLOGY with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1544-9173
PublisherPUBLIC LIBRARY SCIENCE
Support Open AccessYes
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2003 to 2024
AbbreviationPLOS BIOL / PLoS. Biol.
Frequency12 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1160 BATTERY STREET, STE 100, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111

Aims and Scopes

PLOS Biology is an open-access journal that publishes high-quality research across all areas of biology. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, integrating various biological fields to address complex questions. The journal promotes transparency, reproducibility, and the sharing of methods and data among researchers.
  1. Interdisciplinary Biological Research:
    PLOS Biology publishes studies that span across various biological disciplines, encouraging collaboration and integration of knowledge from genetics, ecology, molecular biology, and other fields.
  2. Open Science and Reproducibility:
    The journal supports open science practices, promoting the sharing of data, methods, and protocols to enhance reproducibility and transparency in biological research.
  3. Focus on Evolutionary Biology and Ecology:
    Many studies published focus on evolutionary processes, ecological interactions, and the dynamics of ecosystems, highlighting the importance of understanding biological systems in a broader context.
  4. Impact of Microbiology and Pathogen Biology:
    Research on microbial life, including studies on pathogens and symbiotic relationships, is a core area of focus, reflecting the journal's commitment to understanding health and disease mechanisms.
  5. Neuroscience and Behavior:
    PLOS Biology frequently publishes research on the neural mechanisms of behavior, cognition, and sensory processing, emphasizing the biological bases of behavior and mental processes.
  6. Methodological Innovations:
    The journal encourages the development and application of new methodologies and technologies in biological research, including advances in imaging, genetic engineering, and computational biology.
PLOS Biology has seen an increase in the publication of studies focusing on emerging themes that reflect current scientific priorities and societal needs.
  1. COVID-19 Research and Vaccine Development:
    The journal has published a significant number of articles related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, its variants, and vaccine strategies, reflecting the urgent global need for research in response to the pandemic.
  2. Microbiome Studies:
    Research exploring the human and environmental microbiomes has gained prominence, highlighting their roles in health, disease, and ecological interactions.
  3. Neurobiology and Mental Health:
    There is an increasing focus on studies related to neurobiology, cognitive processes, and their links to mental health, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of brain health.
  4. Climate Change and Environmental Biology:
    Research addressing the impacts of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem functions is trending, emphasizing the urgency of understanding biological responses to environmental stressors.
  5. Gene Editing and Synthetic Biology:
    Innovations in CRISPR technology and synthetic biology are emerging themes, with research focused on applications in agriculture, medicine, and environmental sustainability.
  6. Data Science and Computational Biology:
    The integration of big data analytics and computational methods in biological research is increasingly prevalent, reflecting the trend towards data-driven science.

Declining or Waning

While PLOS Biology covers a wide range of topics, some areas of research have seen a decline in focus over recent years. This may reflect shifts in scientific interest or the emergence of new fields of study.
  1. Traditional Genetics Studies:
    Research focused solely on classical genetics without integrating modern genomic techniques has become less prominent, as the field has moved towards more complex and integrative approaches.
  2. Basic Laboratory Protocols:
    There is a noticeable decline in papers that solely describe basic laboratory methods without innovative applications or new insights, as the journal emphasizes impactful and novel findings.
  3. Reductionist Approaches:
    Studies that adopt strictly reductionist perspectives on biological questions are less frequently published, as there is a growing appreciation for holistic and systems-level approaches.
  4. Isolation of Non-Model Organisms:
    Research on non-model organisms without clear implications for broader biological principles or applications is decreasing, reflecting a trend towards studies that have wider relevance and applicability.
  5. Descriptive Studies without Novel Insights:
    Papers providing only descriptive data without significant new insights or theoretical contributions are being published less frequently, in favor of studies that advance knowledge or provide new frameworks.

Similar Journals

MICROBIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY REVIEWS

Exploring the Intricacies of Life at the Microbial Level
Publisher: AMER SOC MICROBIOLOGYISSN: 1092-2172Frequency: 4 issues/year

MICROBIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY REVIEWS, published by the American Society for Microbiology, is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the fields of microbiology and molecular biology. With an impressive impact factor reflective of its Q1 ranking in categories such as Immunology, Infectious Diseases, and Molecular Biology, this journal consistently showcases high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that contribute to the current understanding of microbial life and molecular mechanisms. Operating since 1997, the journal aims to bridge the gap between microbiological methods and molecular biology applications, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Readers can access content through various platforms, ensuring that the latest findings are readily available to the scientific community. With its esteemed reputation, MICROBIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY REVIEWS remains a leading voice in the exploration of the life sciences, catering to a broad audience deeply invested in unraveling the complexities of microbial and molecular systems.

Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal

Advancing the Frontiers of Biotechnology through Computational Insight
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 2001-0370Frequency:

Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal is a premier open-access journal published by Elsevier, focusing on the intersection of computer science and molecular biology. Since its inception in 2012, the journal has established itself as a leading platform for innovative research, featuring groundbreaking studies in biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology, and genetics. With a remarkable Q1 ranking in multiple categories, including Biochemistry and Genetics, it stands out for its high impact, evidenced by its strong Scopus ranking percentile scores. As a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students, the journal aims to foster the dissemination of essential findings that leverage computational techniques to explore complex biological systems. In a rapidly evolving scientific landscape, Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal serves as an indispensable resource for those looking to contribute and stay abreast of major advancements in the field.

JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCES

Exploring Innovations in Biochemistry and Medicine
Publisher: INDIAN ACAD SCIENCESISSN: 0250-5991Frequency: 1 issue/year

JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCES, published by the Indian Academy of Sciences, has established itself as a pioneering platform in the fields of biosciences, encompassing diverse research areas such as agricultural and biological sciences, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and medicine. With an impressive trajectory since its inception in 1979, the journal has achieved notable recognition, securing a Q1 ranking in Agricultural and Biological Sciences and maintaining its place in the top quartiles for Biochemistry and Medicine as of 2023. With Scopus rankings placing it at #32 in General Agricultural and Biological Sciences and #65 in General Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology, the journal reaches the 85th and 70th percentiles respectively, reflecting its impact and relevance in current scientific discourse. Although it does not offer open access, the JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCES remains crucial for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation within the biosciences, providing a vibrant forum for high-quality research and comprehensive reviews.

BIOESSAYS

Advancing the Frontiers of Biological Understanding
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0265-9247Frequency: 12 issues/year

BIOESSAYS, published by WILEY, is a leading academic journal dedicated to the dynamic fields of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. With an impressive impact factor and recognized as a Q1 journal in its category for 2023, it ranks 49 out of 221 in the Scopus database, placing it within the 78th percentile among its peers. Since its inception in 1984, BIOESSAYS has served as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students, facilitating the dissemination of pivotal findings, innovative theories, and review articles that shape the current understanding of biological sciences. Although it does not offer open access, the journal remains key for those seeking to stay at the forefront of scientific discovery and discussion within this ever-evolving discipline. With its commitment to high-quality, peer-reviewed content, BIOESSAYS continues to influence future research directions and academic discourse.

Bio-protocol

Streamlining research, enhancing reproducibility.
Publisher: BIO-PROTOCOLISSN: Frequency: 24 issues/year

Bio-protocol is an innovative open-access journal dedicated to the advanced fields of biochemistry, immunology, neuroscience, and plant science, published by BIO-PROTOCOL in the United States since 2023. With an E-ISSN of 2331-8325, this journal serves as a pivotal platform for sharing high-quality methodologies and experimental protocols, enabling researchers, professionals, and students to streamline their experimental workflows and enhance reproducibility in scientific research. In 2023, Bio-protocol achieved notable rankings, placing in the Q2 category for biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and immunology, as well as Q3 in neuroscience, reflecting its growing influence and relevance in these fields. The journal offers full open access, ensuring that cutting-edge research is freely available, promoting global collaboration and innovation in the life sciences. Engaging with Bio-protocol positions its readers at the forefront of significant scientific advancements and methodological developments.

Cells

Empowering Researchers with Open Access to Breakthroughs
Publisher: MDPIISSN: Frequency: 24 issues/year

Cells, published by MDPI in Switzerland, is a leading open-access journal that has been disseminating groundbreaking research in the fields of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology since its inception in 2011. With an impressive E-ISSN of 2073-4409, the journal boasts a strong impact factor and ranks in the 84th percentile for Scopus ratings, underscoring its significance in advancing scientific knowledge. As a Q1-ranked journal in both 2023 and 2020, it serves as a premier platform for researchers, professionals, and students eager to explore innovative findings and methodologies. By providing unrestricted access to high-quality research, Cells plays a pivotal role in facilitating collaboration and inspiration within the global scientific community, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in cutting-edge discoveries in cellular biology.

eLife

Pioneering Open Access in Biological Research
Publisher: eLIFE SCIENCES PUBL LTDISSN: 2050-084XFrequency: 1 issue/year

eLife is a premier open-access journal that stands at the forefront of biological and medical research, published by eLIFE SCIENCES PUBL LTD in the United Kingdom. Since its inception in 2012, the journal has made significant strides in disseminating high-quality research across various key disciplines, including Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology, Immunology and Microbiology, and Neuroscience, maintaining a prestigious Q1 quartile ranking in all these fields as of 2023. With an impressive Scopus ranking placing it among the top-tier journals—12th in General Neuroscience, 24th in General Biochemistry, and 8th in General Immunology—eLife is recognized for its impact and influence in shaping research narratives. As an open-access journal, eLife facilitates global access to groundbreaking scientific discoveries, fostering collaboration and innovation among researchers, professionals, and students alike. With a commitment to rigorous peer review and publication excellence, eLife is not just a journal; it is a vital platform contributing to the advancement of life sciences.

Emerging Topics in Life Sciences

Pioneering Research for a Thriving Future
Publisher: PORTLAND PRESS LTDISSN: 2397-8554Frequency: 1 issue/year

Emerging Topics in Life Sciences is a prestigious journal published by Portland Press Ltd, dedicated to advancing the field of life sciences through innovative research, critical reviews, and insightful discussions. With an ISSN of 2397-8554 and an E-ISSN of 2397-8562, this journal operates from its base in the United Kingdom and has quickly established itself as a leading platform for high-quality scientific communication since its inception in 2017. Its esteemed ranking in the 2023 Scopus Quartiles—notably Q1 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences and Q2 in Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology—demonstrates its significant impact, attracting the attention of researchers and practitioners alike. The journal excels in providing open access to its content, ensuring that vital information is freely available to the global research community. With a focus on the latest trends and emerging topics, this journal is ideally suited for academics, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of life sciences and contribute to this dynamic field.

Biologia Futura

Fostering Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
Publisher: SPRINGER HEIDELBERGISSN: 2676-8615Frequency: 4 issues/year

Biologia Futura, an esteemed journal published by SPRINGER HEIDELBERG, serves as a vital platform for researchers and professionals in the fields of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, as well as Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology. Established in Hungary, this journal has been at the forefront of scientific inquiry since its inception in 2019 and continues to contribute significantly to advancing knowledge through rigorous peer-reviewed articles. With current rankings placing it in the second quartile for Agricultural and Biological Sciences and third quartile for Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology according to Scopus metrics, it reflects a robust academic quality and reach. Scholars are encouraged to share their original research, reviews, and innovations that intersect these dynamic fields. Although not an open access publication, Biologia Futura ensures wide dissemination of high-impact research from its notable address at Tiergartenstraße 17, D-69121 Heidelberg, Germany, aiming to foster collaboration and discovery within the global scientific community.

STAR Protocols

Pioneering Protocols for Tomorrow's Discoveries
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 2666-1667Frequency: 1 issue/year

STAR Protocols, published by Elsevier, is an esteemed open access journal that has been at the forefront of providing innovative experimental protocols since its inception in 2020. With a distinct focus on a range of scientific disciplines including Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology, Immunology and Microbiology, and Neuroscience, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal holds a commendable status, reflected by its Q1 and Q2 rankings across various relevant categories, ensuring the dissemination of high-impact research methods and findings. With its open access format, STAR Protocols encourages a broad readership and facilitates the sharing of pivotal knowledge in the scientific community, driving forward the culture of transparency and collaboration in research. Positioned in the vibrant academic landscape of the United States, it steadily contributes to the evolution of experimental methodologies, fostering innovation across disciplines.