Dr. Philippa J. Benson is a distinguished figure in the realm of scientific communication and publishing. With a Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University, she has a rich background in the cognitive processes involved in reading, writing, and information design, focusing on scientific and technical texts. As the launch and managing Editor of AAAS’s gold OA journal Science Advances she brings a wealth of experience regarding all aspects of scientific writing and publishing. Over the course of her career, she has led the launch of several other prestigious scientific journals including CABI Agriculture and Bioscience, The Wildlife Professional and Sustainability: Science, Practice, and Policy. Dr. Benson has also taught graduate and post-graduate courses on professional communication and science writing and publishing at prestigious institutions including Carnegie Mellon, NIH, and Georgetown University. Her international lectures at research universities centers in the U.S., China, Brazil, and across Europe have been influential in shaping effective technical communication and scientific publishing practices.
Dr. Benson has also been recognized for her co-authored publication "What Editors Want: An Author’s Guide to Scientific Journal Publishing," which demystifies the journal submission process and delves into the ethics and trends of publishing. Her consultancy, PJB Consulting, serves a broad international clientele, enhancing the global dialogue on scientific publishing. Dr. Benson's contributions to the field make her a pivotal figure in scientific communication, offering valuable insights into the world of high-impact STM publishing.