Reviewers FAQs

How can I obtain credit for the reviews that I have submitted?

We offer all reviewers a certificate detailing their peer review experience with us. Reviewers can also add reviews to online profiles such as ORCID or Publons.

How do I submit my review?

All the process of review will go through the OJS system. In this regard, the author needs to register on the website of the journal as a reviewer.

Are there ways to keep informed about any updates of the journal?

Yes, the editor sends a monthly email newsletter. Therefore, you may need to subscribe to our journal the announcements and news automatically will be sent to your mailing address.

 

How do editors select reviewers?

A number of factors determine our choice of reviewers. Of primary importance is the reviewer’s expertise, as it is essential that we receive expert feedback on all aspects of the article under consideration. We seek to expand our peer reviewer pool to ensure that the feedback we receive is as global and diverse as the communities we serve. Therefore we often look for new reviewers to bring important perspectives to the review panel while also seeking input from reviewers with previous experience of the journal’s editorial process; this is to ensure consistency in review across manuscripts.

How can I become a peer reviewer?

We are always looking for new peer reviewers to ensure that we maintain diversity in our global reviewer pool. One critical element in making yourself visible to our editors is making sure that your work is easy to find online so that we can understand your expertise and current interests. An updated laboratory webpage is important, as this provides a showcase for your work. Make sure that you have an ORCID account and that you keep your profile up to date. Finally, let the editors know you are interested, either via email and by registering on the website as a reviewer.

Should I agree to review a manuscript if I have co-authored an article with an author of this manuscript?

It depends, and you should talk to the editor. Typically, we do not ask past collaborators to review each other’s manuscripts, but if it has been a sufficiently long period of time (e.g. 3–5 years) since you worked together or if the co-authorship does not reflect a close association, we may make an exception. You should contact the editor to raise a potential competing interest, and they will advise on the best course of action.

Should I agree to review a manuscript if I am working on a similar article?

Please discuss with the editor before you agree to review if you are unsure whether you could provide an unbiased judgement of the work due to your direct involvement in the writing of a similar article.

Should I agree to review a manuscript if I used to be a member of the author’s research group?

It depends on whether you retain a close relationship to the group, and how far you’ve come in establishing your independent career. While we avoid reviews by close associates, in some instances you may be sufficiently independent of your previous group. Please discuss this with the editor in advance of accepting the invitation.

Should I still review a manuscript if I’ve already reviewed it for another journal?

Having reviewed a manuscript for another journal does not constitute a problem, provided that you feel you can objectively assess the manuscript with the standards of our journal in mind.