PLOS BIOLOGY
Scope & Guideline
Fostering Collaboration in the Heart of Biology
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
Trending and Emerging
- 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. - Microbiome Studies:
Research exploring the human and environmental microbiomes has gained prominence, highlighting their roles in health, disease, and ecological interactions. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
Unraveling Complexities in Microbiology and Molecular BiologyMICROBIOLOGY 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.
Cells
Empowering Researchers with Open Access to BreakthroughsCells, 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.
Nature Microbiology
Connecting Microbiology with Real-World ApplicationsNature 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.
GENETICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Elevating knowledge in genetics and molecular biology.GENETICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY, published by the SOC BRASIL GENETICA, is a prominent journal dedicated to the advancement of knowledge in the fields of genetics and molecular biology. Since its inception in 1998, this Open Access journal has served as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate their findings and engage with the latest innovations and discoveries. With an impact factor that reflects its growing influence, GENETICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY ranks in the Q3 category for both genetics and molecular biology as of 2023, indicating its position within the academic community. The journal is indexed in Scopus, highlighting its commitment to maintaining rigorous peer-review standards while providing wide-reaching access to quality research. Operating out of Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, it fosters a collaborative environment for academic discourse and research development not only in Brazil but also globally. The journal encourages submissions that explore a wide range of topics in genetics and molecular biology, making it an essential resource for anyone involved in these dynamic fields.
Journal of Biological Research-Thessaloniki
Advancing Biological Frontiers from Thessaloniki.Journal of Biological Research-Thessaloniki, published by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, is a distinguished academic journal committed to advancing the fields of Agricultural and Biological Sciences and Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology. As an Open Access journal since 2004, it provides a platform for the rapid dissemination of innovative research that spans diverse biological disciplines. With an impact factor that situates it in the Q2 category for Agricultural and Biological Sciences and Q3 for Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology as of 2023, the journal demonstrates a significant contribution to its respective fields. Located in Thessaloniki, Greece, it serves a global audience of researchers, professionals, and students eager to access quality scientific content. The journal is dedicated to publishing original research articles, reviews, and critical commentaries, encouraging collaboration and dialogue amongst scientists dedicated to the frontiers of biological research.
Life Science Alliance
Innovating Open Access for Global Impact.Life Science Alliance, published by LIFE SCIENCE ALLIANCE LLC, is a premier open access journal that has been making significant contributions to the fields of Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology, Ecology, Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis, and Plant Science since its inception in 2018. With an impressive ranking in Scopus, including Q1 quartile positions and high percentiles in relevant categories, this journal is a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike who seek to advance knowledge and innovation in life sciences. The journal operates on an open access model, ensuring that research findings are freely available to the global scientific community, thereby enhancing the visibility and impact of published work. With a commitment to fostering collaboration and disseminating high-quality research, Life Science Alliance serves as an essential platform for the promotion and exchange of scientific knowledge, aiming to bridge gaps and stimulate discussions across multiple disciplines.
Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal
Innovating at the Nexus of Computer Science and Molecular BiologyComputational 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.
Biology-Basel
Exploring the Depths of Agricultural and Biological SciencesBiology-Basel is a premier, peer-reviewed open-access journal published by MDPI since 2012, situated in the heart of Switzerland. With an E-ISSN of 2079-7737, this journal serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of innovative research across the broad spectrum of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology, and Immunology. Recognized for its rigorous editorial standards and impactful findings, it currently ranks Q1 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences and holds impressive positions in several categories according to the 2023 Scopus rankings. The journal’s open-access model ensures that high-quality research is freely available to a global audience, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers, professionals, and students alike. Spanning from 2012 to 2024, Biology-Basel is committed to reflecting the latest advancements in biological sciences, making it an essential resource in the ever-evolving landscape of biological research.
Biologia Futura
Pioneering Discoveries in Genetics and Molecular BiologyBiologia 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.
Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology
Synthesis of Ideas, Pioneering Biological ResearchCold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology is a prestigious academic journal published by COLD SPRING HARBOR LAB PRESS that serves as a vital resource in the fields of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology. With an impressive impact factor and categorized in the Q1 quartile for its contributions, this journal is renowned for curating comprehensive reviews that synthesize the latest advancements and ongoing research in these dynamic and interconnected disciplines. Since its inception in 2009, the journal has played a pivotal role in advancing scientific knowledge through high-quality articles that cater to researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although it operates on a traditional subscription model, its contributions are indispensable for those seeking to remain at the forefront of biological research and its myriad applications. With a commendable ranking of #19 out of 221 in general biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology on Scopus, this journal ensures that its readers have access to cutting-edge insights and a rigorous academic discourse.