About this Research Topic

Background

Human Neuroscience is a dynamic field that explores the complexities of the human brain and behavior. Despite significant advancements, there remain critical gaps in understanding how sexual and gender identities intersect with neural processes. LGBTQ+ individuals have historically faced unique challenges in STEM fields, yet their contributions to neuroscience have been substantial and transformative. Recent studies have begun to explore the relationships between brain structure/function and sexual and gender identities, but much remains to be understood. Addressing these gaps is crucial for fostering a more inclusive scientific community and for advancing our knowledge of human neuroscience in ways that benefit all individuals, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ community.

This research topic aims to highlight and celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ neuroscientists and to promote research that addresses LGBTQ+ issues within the field of human neuroscience. By showcasing the work of LGBTQ+ and allied researchers, we aim to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all scientists. The primary objectives include investigating the neural correlates of sexual and gender identities, understanding the cognitive, affective, and social aspects relevant to LGBTQ+ individuals, and exploring the clinical neuroscience of mental, physical, and social health within the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, we seek to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ neuroscientists and address intersectionality within this research.

To gather further insights into the intersection of LGBTQ+ issues and human neuroscience, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
Neuroscientific studies investigating the relationship between brain structure/function and sexual and gender identities using various methods (e.g., neuropsychology, neuroimaging, neurostimulation).
- Investigations into cognitive, affective, and social neuroscience that include samples of or are primarily relevant to LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Clinical neuroscience research focused on the mental, physical, and social health of the LGBTQ+ community, including studies of neurological populations and healthcare professionals.
- Experiences of LGBTQ+ neuroscientists in the workplace and academia, including barriers to and promoters of career advancement.
- Studies addressing intersectionality between sexual/gender identity and socio-demographic characteristics such as age, sex, ethnicity, race, religion, disability, culture, language, and socio-economic status.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Registered Report
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Pride, Neuroscience, LGBTQ+

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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