At present, less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women. Long-standing biases and gender stereotypes are discouraging girls and women away from science-related fields, and STEM research in particular. Science and gender equality are, however, essential to ensure sustainable development, as highlighted by UNESCO. In order to change traditional mindsets, gender equality must be promoted, stereotypes defeated, and girls and women should be encouraged to pursue STEM careers. Therefore, Frontiers in Fungal Biology is proud to offer this platform to promote the research of women scientists, across secondary metabolites and mycotoxins.

The work presented here highlights the diversity of research performed across the entire breadth of Fungal Secondary Metabolites and Mycotoxins research and presents advances in theory, analytical innovation, experiment modelling approach, and methodology with applications to compelling problems specifically focused on this area.

Fungal secondary metabolites serve pivotal roles in environmental interactions such as defence, communication, and competition despite not being directly linked to growth, development, or reproduction. Due to their diverse functionalities, fungi exhibit a vast array of secondary metabolites, which have found applications in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food production. Additionally, some secondary metabolites produced by fungi can be highly toxic to both animals and plants.

The collection showcases contemporary contributions, encompassing a wide range of perspectives, including but not limited to:

• Gain insights into fungal production of secondary metabolites

• Explore the utilization and diverse applications of these secondary metabolites

• Learn about advanced techniques for the detection and analysis of fungal metabolites

• Understand the potential consequences of exposure to fungal metabolites

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Women in Fungal Secondary Metabolites and Mycotoxins 2024/2025