Women's Special Issue Series: Insects

The scientific community has long recognized that diversity fosters innovation and progress. Over recent decades, women have increasingly contributed to entomological research, enriching the field with new perspectives and approaches. Nevertheless, despite representing 40-50% of doctoral graduates, women remain underrepresented in academic and institutional positions and are often underemployed. This Special Issue of Insects, entitled "Women's Special Issue Series: Insects", celebrates the scientific achievements of women who have shaped and continue to shape insect science. By highlighting their contributions, the initiative emphasizes the importance of equity, inclusion, and collaboration as drivers of scientific advancement and aims to promote a more balanced and supportive research community. The papers included demonstrate the breadth and excellence of women-led research across insect science. Topics range from molecular biology and genetics, addressing gene expression, adaptation, and responses to chemical stressors, to ecology and conservation, focusing on species distribution, habitat connectivity, and biodiversity. Overall, this Special Issue illustrates how women-led entomological research continues to expand the frontiers of knowledge, advancing both fundamental science and applied solutions with clear societal relevance.