Why Researchers Choose American Journal of Biological Anthropology for High-Impact Publications

The American Journal of Biological Anthropology stands as a cornerstone in the field of biological anthropology, offering researchers a platform to disseminate groundbreaking work on human evolution, variation, and adaptation. Established in 1918 as the American Journal of Physical Anthropology and renamed in 2020 to reflect its evolving scope, this journal has long been a beacon for scholars exploring the biological dimensions of humanity. Published by Wiley, it bridges traditional anthropology with modern interdisciplinary approaches, attracting contributions from experts worldwide.

With a focus on empirical research, the journal publishes original articles, reviews, and brief communications that advance understanding of primate biology, skeletal analysis, genetics, and biocultural interactions. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the highest-quality manuscripts see publication, contributing to its solid reputation. Researchers value the American Journal of Biological Anthropology impact factor of 2.835 (2022 Clarivate Journal Citation Reports), which underscores its influence in anthropology and related sciences. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach broader audiences while maintaining accessibility through subscriptions.

For those considering where to publish in American Journal of Biological Anthropology, the emphasis on innovative methodologies and theoretical advancements makes it ideal for studies on human origins, forensic anthropology, and population genetics. The editorial board, comprising leading figures in the discipline, provides insightful feedback that enhances manuscript quality. As biological anthropology intersects with fields like evolutionary biology and public health, publishing here elevates a researcher's profile and fosters collaborations.

Explore opportunities in anthropology by checking out anthropology faculty positions or use our Rate My Professor tool to connect with mentors. To stay updated on deadlines, visit the academic calendar.

Overview & History

The American Journal of Biological Anthropology traces its roots to 1918, when it was founded as the American Journal of Physical Anthropology by the American Association of Physical Anthropologists. Over the decades, it has evolved to encompass broader biological perspectives, leading to its 2020 rename. This journal has chronicled key developments in the study of human biology, from early 20th-century racial typologies to contemporary genomic analyses. Today, it remains affiliated with the American Association of Biological Anthropologists, promoting ethical research and diversity in scholarship.

Key milestones include its shift toward interdisciplinary integration in the 1970s and the adoption of digital publishing in the 1990s. With over 100 years of publication history, it serves as an archival resource for anthropologists, boasting a comprehensive backfile accessible via Wiley Online Library.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal's scope centers on biological anthropology, emphasizing the biological and behavioral aspects of humans and non-human primates. It welcomes submissions on topics such as human evolutionary history, skeletal biology, primatology, and bioarchaeology. Manuscripts must demonstrate methodological rigor and theoretical relevance to the field.

Key Journal Metrics

Performance metrics highlight the journal's standing. The 2022 impact factor of 2.835 reflects its citation influence, while the 5-year impact factor stands at 3.012. CiteScore from Scopus is 4.8, indicating strong altmetric performance.

Indexing and Abstracting

The American Journal of Biological Anthropology is indexed in major databases, ensuring visibility. It appears in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Anthropology Plus. This coverage facilitates discoverability and supports grant applications. For full indexing details, visit the official journal homepage.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, it offers traditional subscription access alongside gold open access options. The article processing charge (APC) for open access is $3,200, waivable under certain conditions. No page charges apply for standard submissions. Authors retain copyright under a Creative Commons license for OA articles. Review policies from Sherpa/RoMEO confirm self-archiving rights.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via ScholarOne Manuscripts on the Wiley platform. Prepare manuscripts in double-spaced format, up to 8,000 words, with abstracts limited to 250 words. Ethical guidelines follow the American Association of Biological Anthropologists' code. Average time to first decision is 4-6 weeks. For detailed instructions, access the author guidelines.

• Register on ScholarOne.
• Upload manuscript, figures, and disclosures.
• Declare conflicts of interest.
• Track status online.

Editorial Board Highlights

The board features experts like Editor-in-Chief Agustin Fuentes (University of Notre Dame), specializing in primate behavior. Associate editors cover paleoanthropology and genetics, ensuring diverse expertise. Their global representation enhances the journal's international appeal.

Why Publish in American Journal of Biological Anthropology?

Publishing here offers visibility in a niche yet influential field. The journal's prestige aids career advancement, with articles often cited in textbooks and policy documents. Interdisciplinary reach extends to biology and archaeology, broadening impact. Researchers benefit from rapid online publication and DOI assignment.

Consider submitting your work on human adaptation—check anthropology PhD programs for training inspiration.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This journal compares favorably to peers in scope and metrics.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with the journal's scope—emphasize biological implications. Use clear visuals and robust statistics. Engage with recent issues for trends. Pre-submission inquiries to editors can clarify fit. Finally, proofread meticulously. For career support, explore higher education jobs in anthropology.