Women in Plant Pathogen Interactions: 2025

We are honored to present this Frontiers in Plant Science article collection, ‘Women in Plant Pathogen Interactions: 2025’, as part of our ongoing efforts to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women scientists. This Research Topic is proudly led by a member of our Plant Pathogen Interactions editorial board, Dr. Kadriye Çaǧlayan.

According to the UNESCO Science Report 2021, women represent only 33% of researchers worldwide, highlighting the ongoing underrepresentation of women in science. Systemic barriers, societal biases, and gender stereotypes continue to limit women's participation in science-related fields, especially in STEM research. UNESCO emphasizes that gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in science are crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In line with this, Frontiers in Plant Science is proud to offer this platform to highlight the outstanding work of women researchers advancing our understanding of plant-pathogen interactions.

The goal of this article collection is to shed light on the diverse, dynamic, and multidisciplinary field of plant pathogen interactions, while also promoting the visibility of women scientists, minorities, and early-career researchers. This special issue seeks to present global perspectives and foster inclusivity and innovation in plant pathology research.

Plant-pathogen interactions encompass a complex network of molecular, genetic, and ecological processes that define the outcome of plant diseases. Recent advancements have greatly enhanced our understanding of the molecular communication between plants and pathogens, the genetic and epigenetic dynamics at play, and how environmental factors influence these interactions. We especially welcome research that offers new insights into:

• Molecular mechanisms of plant pathogenesis and plant defense
• Disease control and field application
• Genetic and epigenetic regulation and transgenerational effects in plant-pathogen interactions
• Molecular communication between plants and a variety of pathogens, including microorganisms, nematodes, insects, mites, and parasitic plants
• The reciprocal relationship between plant immunity and the microbiome
• Nutrient exchange and utilization strategies during infection
• Technological and biotechnological approaches for disease control and enhanced plant productivity
• Evolutionary and ecological dynamics of plant-pathogen interactions
• Multitrophic interactions involving plants and pathogens

In particular, we encourage research that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

We invite original research articles, reviews, and opinion pieces that provide in-depth molecular, cellular, ecological, or technological insights into plant pathogen interactions. Submissions with female first or last authors are especially encouraged, though contributions from all researchers are welcome.

Please note that purely descriptive studies, such as simple listings of differentially expressed genes, proteins, or metabolites, or basic gene family descriptions, will not be considered unless expanded to provide functional or mechanistic insights. This collection offers an opportunity to showcase cutting-edge research while advancing gender equality and diversity in the plant sciences. We look forward to receiving your valuable contributions.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: women in plant science, plant-pathogen interactions, molecular plant immunity, sustainable agriculture research, gender diversity in STEM

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.