PLOS Biology publishes original research and commentary in all areas of the biological sciences. The journal aims to publish papers of general interest to biologists, with a focus on significant advances and discoveries. It covers a wide range of topics, including molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and systems biology.
⚡ Speed vs Prestige
How does this journal balance review speed with impact level?
Based on the Think.Check.Submit framework by DOAJ, COPE & OASPA. All data from verified open sources.
Publication & Citation Trend
Articles published
Times cited
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
Source: OpenAlex · Note: citations accumulate over time so older years appear higher
SJR Quartile by Discipline
Scimago ranks this journal separately in each subject category — its quartile can differ by discipline.
Agricultural and Biological Sciences (miscellaneous)Q1
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology (miscellaneous)Q1
Immunology and Microbiology (miscellaneous)Q1
Neuroscience (miscellaneous)Q1
Subject Classification
Web of Science Categories
Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyBiology
Scopus Categories
Neuroscience (miscellaneous)Agricultural and Biological Sciences (miscellaneous)Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology (miscellaneous)Immunology and Microbiology (miscellaneous)
Research Topics (OpenAlex)
Neural dynamics and brain functionNeurobiology and Insect Physiology ResearchRNA and protein synthesis mechanismsEvolution and Genetic DynamicsNeuroscience and Neuropharmacology ResearchRNA Research and SplicingCRISPR and Genetic EngineeringGenetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model OrganismsPlant and animal studiesGenomics and Phylogenetic Studies