Call for Research Editor

The JSWC is accepting applications for a Research Co-Editor - Social Sciences Specialization. The application period will close on May 31, 2023.

Position Overview
Two Research Co-Editors manage JSWC content selection. Editors serve a term of three years with the possibility of renewal up to three terms or nine years. Research Co-Editors specialize in either conservation physical sciences or social sciences. Research Co-Editors are responsible for assigning Research Section manuscripts in their respective track to Associate Editors for peer review and make the final decision on whether the manuscripts should be accepted or released based on the recommendations from the Associate Editors. Research Co-Editors also serve as the Co-Chairs of the Editorial Board, which consists of Associate Editors, and invite members to serve on the Editorial Board. One of their important tasks is to ensure that the members of the Editorial Board represent a mix of specializations, based on the current needs of the journal. In case of an appeal of the manuscript release decision, the Research Co-Editors overseeing the review investigates the issue and makes the final decision in the appeal process, but may form a committee consisting of Editorial Board members to address difficult issues.

Social Sciences Research Co-Editor Qualifications

  • Well-organized, prompt, and able to meet commitments
  • Respected leader in natural resource conservation research community, with a social sciences research focus
  • Demonstrated broad knowledge of conservation practice application as well as research
  • High standards in research and publication
  • Able to make unbiased, fair decisions
  • Willing to make and effectively communicate difficult decisions in a timely manner
  • Experience serving as an editor and reviewer, preferably for multiple publications
  • General understanding of scholarly publishing processes and trends
  • Strategic insight to apply field trends to editorial direction of the journal
  • Knowledge of  the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) or like-minded professional associations
  • Vision and enthusiasm for improving the impact and reputation of the journal
  • Membership in SWCS

Desired Additional Qualification

  • Current or past service as JSWC associate editor

Co-Editor Responsibilities

  1. Review assigned submissions for appropriate content and route them to subject-specific associate editors for peer review
  2. Ensure consistency of publication standards and implementation of editorial policy across manuscripts
  3. Uphold journal ethics and policies, including strict manuscript, author, and reviewer confidentiality; professionality in communication with editors and authors; and publication integrity
  4. Oversee Associate Editors (AEs) and Editorial Board
  5. Manage manuscript decision appeals
  6. Respond to journal feedback and questions in a timely manner (in consultation with editorial office when needed)
  7. Review special issue/section proposals for suitability and announce them to the Editorial Board for a vote
  8. Invite occasional high quality manuscripts for peer review
  9. Report on impact and citation metrics to Editorial Board annually
  10. In cooperation with journal team, develop and implement new strategies to increase submissions, usage, and citations; and to improve journal editorial processes, impact and quality, and adherence to industry standards (e.g., open access, data availability and transparency, marketing, etc.)
  11. Seek opportunities to improve JSWC and SWCS impact, reputation, and sustainability (e.g., special topic issues, promotional opportunities, partnerships, funding sources)
  12. Organize Editorial Board ad hoc subcommittees when necessary
  13. Serve as journal liaison to SWCS Board of Directors and committees, including Annual Conference Program Planning Committee and Science and Policy Committee

Society publishing staff provide training, support, and assistance in editorial processes, peer review, and editorial board management and communication as required.

These positions are voluntary and unpaid. An annual stipend will be provided to each research co-editor for travel to the SWCS annual meeting.

Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
The Soil and Water Conservation Society denounces the systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality that exist today. Racism, discrimination, and inequality of any kind oppose SWCS’s core values, which include respect for people and cultures, and the unification of people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. SWCS seeks diverse voices, actively listens, engages in dialogue, thinks critically, and takes meaningful action toward creating institutions and systems that serve and value people equally. Our goals for the world’s soil, water, and other natural resources cannot be realized without justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We expect justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to be a component of all projects.

To apply, please email the following to pubs@swcs.org by May 31, 2023:

  • Application letter indicating interest and highlighting relevant experience
  • Curriculum vitae
  • List of editorial experience (e.g., service as editor, associate or technical editor, or reviewer), as well as three reference contacts related to these experiences