Editor Selection Policy

Editor Selection Policy

Editor Selection Policy for the Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences (AJABS)

Objective:
To establish a transparent, equitable, and merit-based framework for the selection of all editors for the Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences (AJABS), ensuring the appointment of highly qualified individuals who will uphold the journal's commitment to academic excellence, ethical rigor, and scientific innovation.

Scope:
This policy applies to all editorial roles within AJABS, including the Editor-in-Chief, Associate Editors, and Section Editors responsible for specific domains such as crop science, animal husbandry, and biosocial research.

Eligibility Criteria:
Prospective editors must demonstrate the following qualifications:

  • Hold a Ph.D. or an equivalent terminal degree in a discipline directly relevant to agricultural, biological, or biosocial sciences.

  • Possess a distinguished and sustained record of scholarly publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals within the journal's scope.

  • Have documented prior experience in an editorial capacity or as a frequent, high-quality peer reviewer for scientific journals.

  • Exhibit an unwavering commitment to academic integrity, ethical publishing practices, and professional conduct.

  • Demonstrate the ability and willingness to dedicate sufficient time and intellectual effort to fulfill the demanding responsibilities of the editorial role.

Selection Process:

  • Public Announcement: Vacant editorial positions will be publicly advertised through the journal's website, academic networks, and relevant professional associations to attract a wide pool of qualified candidates.

  • Application Requirements: Interested candidates must submit a comprehensive application package, including a detailed curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining their interest, and a strategic vision statement for the journal's future development.

  • Review and Evaluation: A specially convened selection committee, comprising current senior editorial board members and independent external experts, will rigorously assess all applications against the predefined eligibility criteria.

  • Interviews: Short-listed candidates will participate in formal interviews to further evaluate their strategic alignment with the journal's mission, editorial philosophy, and leadership capabilities.

  • Final Appointment: The selection committee's final recommendations are presented to the publisher, AXIS EXPLORATION AND ACADEMICS (PRIVATE) LIMITED, for official appointment and announcement.

Term and Responsibilities:
Editors are typically appointed for an initial term of three years, which may be renewed based on a satisfactory performance review. Key responsibilities include overseeing the double-blind peer-review process for assigned manuscripts, making editorial decisions, contributing to the journal's strategic direction, and upholding its ethical policies.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
All applicants are required to fully disclose any personal, financial, or professional conflicts of interest that could be perceived to compromise their editorial objectivity. These disclosures are a critical component of the evaluation process to safeguard the journal's integrity.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
AJABS is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within its editorial leadership. We actively encourage applications from qualified individuals of all nationalities, genders, career stages, and institutional backgrounds, aiming to build a board that reflects the global and interdisciplinary nature of agricultural research.

Policy Review and Amendments:
This policy will be subject to periodic review to ensure it remains aligned with evolving best practices in scholarly publishing and continues to effectively serve the strategic needs of the journal and its academic community.

This comprehensive policy ensures that the editorial selection process for the Axis Journal of Agriculture & Biological Sciences is conducted with the utmost integrity and transparency, securing a leadership team dedicated to advancing the journal's quality and impact.