Water Research

WATER RESEARCH, published by Elsevier, is a leading international journal dedicated to the science and technology of water quality and its management. With an ISSN of 0043-1354 and a 2026 Impact Factor of 12.800, it consistently ranks in the JCR Q1 quartile, solidifying its position as one of the most influential and highly cited journals in the fields of environmental engineering, water resources, and aquatic sciences. The journal’s scope encompasses the full spectrum of water research, from fundamental science to applied engineering and policy. Key topics include water and wastewater treatment processes, drinking water quality and distribution, aquatic chemistry and microbiology, membrane technology, water reuse and desalination, and the fate and transport of contaminants in natural and engineered systems. It also covers emerging areas such as microplastics, antibiotic resistance, and the water-energy nexus. WATER RESEARCH publishes a range of article types, including original research papers, critical review articles, and occasional policy analyses, all of which undergo rigorous peer review to ensure methodological soundness and significant contribution to the field. The journal is available in both subscription and open access models, allowing authors to choose open access publication for broader dissemination. Its target audience is broad, comprising academic researchers, government regulators, water utility professionals, environmental consultants, and engineers seeking authoritative, high-impact findings. The journal’s exceptional standing is reflected not only in its top-quartile rank but also in its role as a primary reference for advancing knowledge and solving practical challenges in global water security and environmental protection.