PNAS: The Official Journal of the National Academy of Sciences
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, commonly known as PNAS, stands as one of the world's most influential peer-reviewed multidisciplinary scientific journals. Serving as the official publication of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), it provides a global platform for original research, scientific reviews, commentaries, and letters across a vast array of scientific disciplines.
Since its inception, PNAS has been recognized for its prestige and high impact. It is currently the second most cited scientific journal globally, boasting over 1.9 million cumulative citations between 2008 and 2018. With a 2024 impact factor of 9.1, it continues to be a primary destination for groundbreaking scientific discovery.
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Key Facts
- Founded: 1915
- Publisher: United States National Academy of Sciences
- Frequency: Weekly
- Impact Factor (2024): 9.1
- Access Model: Hybrid, delayed open access (6-month embargo)
- Format: Online-only since January 2019 (print available on demand)
History and Evolution
PNAS was established by the National Academy of Sciences in 1914, with the first issue appearing in 1915. The NAS itself was founded in 1863 as a private institution chartered by the U.S. Congress to investigate and report on any subject of science or art.
Initially, the journal primarily published brief announcements of research contributed by Academy members and associates. However, the submission process evolved significantly over the decades. In December 1995, PNAS opened its doors to all authors, removing the requirement for sponsorship by an NAS member. By July 1, 2010, the journal eliminated the "communicated submissions" system, where NAS members could sponsor non-member papers.
Today, the journal maintains a rigorous standard of quality, with 95% of papers being peer-reviewed direct submissions and 5% being contributed submissions.
Expansion into PNAS Nexus
In 2022, the NAS expanded its publishing reach by establishing PNAS Nexus, an interdisciplinary open-access journal published in partnership with Oxford Academic.
Editorial Standards and Controversies
As a leading scientific voice, PNAS has often navigated the intersection of science, security, and ethics. In 2003, the journal implemented a policy to monitor life sciences submissions for sensitive material that could potentially compromise public welfare.
This commitment to public interest was tested in 2005 when PNAS published a study on botulinum toxin in milk to analyze potential bioterror attacks on the food supply. Despite objections from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the journal proceeded with the publication, accompanied by a commentary from then-Academy president Bruce Alberts.
The journal has also faced criticism regarding its review processes. A 2023 review by Holliday et al. highlighted failures in the "contributed review" system for Academy members, specifically citing the publication of the Younger Dryas impact hypothesis. This controversy contributed to the curtailment of "pal reviews" (non-standard reviews among peers) in 2010.
Journal Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| ISO 4 Abbreviation | Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. |
| ISSN (Print/Web) | 0027-8424 / 1091-6490 |
| Indexing | CODEN: PNASA6, JSTOR: 00278424 |
| Open Access License | Creative Commons (since Sept 2017) |
| Current Editor-in-Chief | May Berenbaum (2019–present) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the impact factor of PNAS?
As of 2024, PNAS has an impact factor of 9.1.
Is PNAS an open-access journal?
PNAS operates as a hybrid, delayed open-access journal. Most articles become open access after a six-month embargo period, though authors can pay a fee to bypass this delay.
Can non-members of the National Academy of Sciences submit papers?
Yes. Since December 1995, PNAS has accepted submissions from all authors regardless of their membership status with the NAS.
Is PNAS still published in print?
Since January 2019, PNAS has been an online-only publication, although print issues remain available upon request.
What is PNAS Nexus?
PNAS Nexus is an interdisciplinary open-access journal established by the NAS in 2022 and published by Oxford Academic.