The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Anna Amtmann, Professor of Molecular Plant Physiology at the University of Glasgow, as the next Editor-in-Chief of Plant Physiology. Dr. Amtmann will succeed Yunde Zhao, whose leadership has helped guide the journal through a period of significant growth and scientific impact.
Dr. Amtmann brings to the role an outstanding record of scientific achievement, editorial leadership, and service to the global plant science community. She previously served as Editor-in-Chief of Plant, Cell & Environment from 2018 to 2023 and has been an active contributor to Plant Physiology as both an author and editor.
“Plant Physiology has long been a cornerstone of our field, publishing research of exceptional quality and integrity,” said Dr. Amtmann. “I am honored to take on this role and to work with the editorial board and ASPB community to ensure the journal continues to uphold the highest scientific standards while evolving to meet the needs of authors, readers, and society.”
In her vision for the journal, Dr. Amtmann emphasizes maintaining rigorous peer review, supporting a diverse and inclusive authorship, and advancing access to high-quality scientific information. She also highlights the importance of adapting to emerging trends in publishing and communication.
“My goal is to ensure that Plant Physiology remains a trusted platform for objective scientific evidence,” she said. “This includes strengthening quality criteria, supporting editors and authors through transparent processes, and fostering an environment where scientific excellence and inclusivity go hand in hand.”
Dr. Amtmann also underscores the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital tools in scientific communication.
“We should position the journal as a leader in how high-quality plant science is accessed and understood in an AI-driven world,” she noted. “By working collaboratively across the community, we can maximize the benefits of these technologies while safeguarding scientific integrity.”
Her scientific research has focused on understanding how plants respond to environmental stress, including nutrient deficiency, salinity, and drought, as well as the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying these responses. She has also led interdisciplinary collaborations spanning bioinformatics, engineering, and industrial biotechnology.
ASPB leadership expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Amtmann’s appointment and confidence in her vision for the journal’s future.
“Dr. Amtmann is an exceptional scientist and a proven editorial leader,” said Reuben Peters, Chair of ASPB’s Publications Committee and co-Chair of the Editor-in-Chief Search Committee. “Her commitment to scientific rigor, innovation, and community engagement makes her particularly well-suited to lead Plant Physiology into its next chapter.”
ASPB also extends its deep gratitude to Dr. Zhao for his dedicated service and leadership as Editor-in-Chief. Under his guidance, Plant Physiology has continued to strengthen its reputation as a leading journal in plant science. Dr. Zhao will celebrate the journal’s 100th anniversary with a specially curated Centennial Edition published in December 2026.
Dr. Amtmann will begin her term as Editor-in-Chief on January 1, 2027, working closely with the editorial board, authors, and reviewers to advance the journal’s mission of publishing high-impact research that drives discovery and innovation in plant biology.
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Congratulations Dr. Amtmann on this milestone.
So happy I’m a plant physiologist too
This is an incredible achievement, Dr. Anna Amtmann, you really deserve it.
Congratulations for the well-deserved recognition and responsibility . Good luck.
Many Congratulations. This is definitely a proper recognition.