Editor Selection Policy

Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research (JHRR)

This policy ensures transparent, merit-based selection of editors for JHRR, aligning with international best practices set by COPE, ICMJE, and DOAJ. It guarantees adherence to ethical publishing standards and supports diversity and inclusivity in editorial leadership.

Objective

To establish clear and fair criteria for selecting editors to uphold the journal's commitment to high editorial standards, ethical publishing practices, and scholarly excellence.

Scope

Applicable to all editorial roles within JHRR, including Editor-in-Chief, Associate Editors, and Section Editors.

Eligibility Criteria

Prospective editors must:

  • Hold a doctoral degree (or equivalent) in a discipline relevant to the journal’s scope.
  • Have an extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals within health and rehabilitation research.
  • Demonstrate prior editorial or peer-review experience.
  • Exhibit a strong reputation for integrity, professionalism, and ethical behavior.
  • Commit to dedicating time and effort to editorial responsibilities.
  • Show an understanding of open access principles and ethical publishing standards (e.g., COPE, ICMJE).

Selection Process

  1. Nomination and Application:

    • Open editorial positions are publicly announced, inviting applications and nominations through transparent channels.

  2. Application Requirements:

    • Applicants must submit:
      • A detailed CV.
      • A statement of interest outlining their motivation and goals for contributing to JHRR.
      • A vision statement focusing on how they will enhance the journal’s strategic growth.

  3. Review and Evaluation:

    • A committee composed of existing editorial members and independent experts evaluates applications based on:
      • Academic qualifications and expertise.
      • Experience in peer review and editorial roles.
      • Alignment with JHRR’s goals and values, including diversity and inclusivity.

  4. Interviews:

    • Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews to discuss their vision and ability to meet the journal’s strategic and ethical goals.

  5. Final Selection:

    • Recommendations from the selection committee are forwarded to the journal’s governing body for approval.
    • Appointments are based on merit, ethical suitability, and alignment with JHRR’s editorial standards.

Term and Responsibilities

  • Editors are appointed for a renewable term of three to five years, subject to annual performance evaluations.
  • Key responsibilities include:
    • Managing and overseeing the peer-review process.
    • Upholding JHRR’s editorial policies and ethical standards.
    • Contributing to the journal’s strategic direction and growth.
    • Ensuring timely publication and fostering scholarly integrity.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

Applicants are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest that could impact their impartiality. Examples include:

  • Financial relationships with stakeholders.
  • Personal or professional ties with authors or institutions.
    These disclosures are assessed during the selection process to ensure the integrity and neutrality of the editorial board.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

JHRR actively promotes diversity and equity in its editorial board. Efforts include:

  • Encouraging applications from underrepresented demographics and disciplines.
  • Striving for balanced representation across gender, ethnicity, and geographic regions.
  • Supporting inclusive perspectives in editorial decision-making and journal content.

Policy Review and Amendments

This policy is periodically reviewed and updated to incorporate evolving best practices, ethical guidelines, and the journal’s needs. Amendments are made in alignment with COPE, ICMJE, and DOAJ standards to maintain the highest level of transparency and effectiveness.