The Impact Factor (IF) is one of the most influential metrics in academic publishing. It reflects how frequently the journal’s articles are cited, indicating the reach and importance of the research it publishes. Below is a list of the top 10 journals in 2025 ranked by their Impact Factor, along with their core focus areas and brief overviews.
| # | Journal Name | ISSN | eISSN | Category | Citations | IF | 5-Year IF | Quartile |
| 1 | CA – A Cancer Journal for Clinicians | 0007-9235 | 1542-4863 | Oncology – SCIE (Q1) | 71799 | 232.4 | 353.0 | Q1 |
| 2 | Nature Reviews Microbiology | 1740-1526 | 1740-1534 | Microbiology – SCIE (Q1) | 61109 | 103.3 | 99.1 | Q1 |
| 3 | Nature Reviews Drug Discovery | 1474-1776 | 1474-1784 | Pharmacology & Pharmacy – SCIE (Q1); Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology – SCIE (Q1) | 52833 | 101.8 | 129.8 | Q1 |
| 4 | Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology | 1471-0072 | 1471-0080 | Cell Biology – SCIE (Q1) | 73135 | 90.2 | 128.7 | Q1 |
| 5 | Kidney International Supplements | 2157-1724 | 2157-1716 | Urology & Nephrology – SCIE (Q1) | 3196 | 89.6 | 26.0 | Q1 |
| 6 | The Lancet | 0140-6736 | 1474-547X | Medicine, General & Internal – SCIE (Q1) | 347563 | 88.5 | 104.8 | Q1 |
| 7 | Nature Reviews Materials | — | 2058-8437 | Nanoscience & Nanotechnology – SCIE (Q1); Materials Science, Multidisciplinary – SCIE (Q1) | 43197 | 86.2 | 99.8 | Q1 |
| 8 | Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology | 1759-4774 | 1759-4782 | Oncology – SCIE (Q1) | 33355 | 82.2 | 89.9 | Q1 |
| 9 | The New England Journal of Medicine | 0028-4793 | 1533-4406 | Medicine, General & Internal – SCIE (Q1) | 397323 | 78.5 | 84.9 | Q1 |
| 10 | Nature Reviews Earth & Environment | — | 2662-138X | Environmental Sciences – SCIE (Q1); Geosciences, Multidisciplinary – SCIE (Q1) | 14133 | 71.5 | 73.7 | Q1 |
Highlights of Each Journal
CA – A Cancer Journal for Clinicians
The leading journal in oncology, it offers high-impact reviews and clinical guidance. Its exceptionally high citation rate reflects its crucial role in cancer treatment policy and education.
Nature Reviews Microbiology
This journal explores groundbreaking advances in microbiology, including virus-host interactions and bacterial pathogenesis. It is highly respected for its clarity and scientific depth.
Nature Reviews Drug Discovery
A go-to resource for updates on pharmaceutical innovation and drug mechanisms, this journal bridges biotech and clinical research with broad influence across life sciences.
Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology
This journal publishes comprehensive reviews in molecular mechanisms and cell biology, making it a central reference for researchers in life and biomedical sciences.
Kidney International Supplements
Known for publishing clinical guidelines, this supplement to Kidney International garners high citation counts despite a focused audience, reflecting its authority in nephrology.
The Lancet
With a long-standing legacy in medical publishing, The Lancet covers a broad range of health issues and often features landmark global health research that shapes public policy.
Nature Reviews Materials
This journal delves into advanced materials and nanotechnologies. It’s a key resource for those working at the intersection of materials science and applied physics.
Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology
Highly regarded for its expert reviews in clinical cancer treatment, the journal provides insights into new therapies, diagnostics, and personalized medicine.
The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM)
A staple in medical research, NEJM consistently publishes pivotal clinical trials and studies that redefine modern healthcare practices.
Nature Reviews Earth & Environment
This newer but high-impact journal covers climate science, sustainability, and geoscience. It is gaining prominence for its integrative and interdisciplinary approach.
Conclusion
These journals not only rank highest by Impact Factor in 2025 but also lead their fields in influence, credibility, and scholarly excellence. Whether you’re looking to publish high-impact research or stay updated with the latest scientific advances, these journals represent the pinnacle of academic publishing.