The Role and Responsibilities of an Editor-in-Chief
The position of Editor-in-Chief for a scientific journal like The Journal of Nutrition is a significant leadership role. The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) emphasizes that this individual acts as the public voice and ambassador for the journal, shaping its vision, attracting submissions, and leading the editorial process including peer review. A strong candidate needs broad knowledge in nutritional science, awareness of new research areas, and proven leadership in scholarly publishing.
Leadership within the Editorial Board
The Editor-in-Chief collaborates closely with Associate Editors and a global Editorial Board of distinguished experts. This leadership ensures the journal's content is relevant and impactful. While the Editor-in-Chief has editorial control, the ASN's Board of Directors approves key appointments and policies.
The Editor-in-Chief's Core Tasks
Key responsibilities include:
- Strategic Vision: Setting the journal's direction in line with ASN goals.
- Content Oversight: Ensuring the quality and integrity of published research.
- Team Leadership: Guiding the editorial team to select top research.
- Ambassadorship: Representing the journal at scientific events.
- Innovation: Leading adaptation to changes like open access publishing.
The Selection and Appointment Process
Selecting the Editor-in-Chief for The Journal of Nutrition is a formal process by the ASN. A search, sometimes using external firms, identifies candidates with the right skills. The process involves reviewing applications, including a letter of interest and CV detailing editorial experience. The ASN Board of Directors makes the final decision.
Comparison of Editorial Roles in Nutrition Journals
Editorial structures differ among nutrition journals, as shown below:
| Feature | The Journal of Nutrition (JN) | British Journal of Nutrition (BJN) | Nutrition in Clinical Practice (NCP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Publisher | American Society for Nutrition | Cambridge University Press (for The Nutrition Society) | Wiley (for American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition) |
| Editor-in-Chief | Appointed for a five-year term by ASN, began Jan 2024 | Prof. John Mathers (as of 2022) | Russell J. Merritt, MD, PhD (as of 2023) |
| Focus | Human, animal, cellular, and molecular nutrition | Animal and human nutrition | Scientific basis and clinical application of nutrition support |
| Process | Formal search by ASN, approved by Board of Directors | Published by Cambridge University Press, oversight by The Nutrition Society | Published by Wiley, oversight by American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition |
The Significance of Editorial Leadership
The Editor-in-Chief is vital for a journal's reputation and impact, ensuring published research is sound and contributes to science. By setting standards, managing conflicts, and promoting open access, they maintain scientific integrity. The leadership transition at JN reflects the evolution of nutrition science and publishing, requiring new leaders for challenges like open access and global reach. The ASN's thorough selection process highlights the importance of this role for The Journal of Nutrition.
Conclusion
The current Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Nutrition for the term starting January 2024 is determined by the American Society for Nutrition's selection process. While Dr. Teresa A. Davis was the previous editor, the specific individual for the new five-year term is officially announced by the ASN. This role is crucial for the journal's strategic direction, scientific integrity, and influence on nutritional science, maintaining the high standards that make JN a leading publication.
Optional Outbound Link
For the most current information regarding the editorial board of The Journal of Nutrition, please refer to the official American Society for Nutrition Journals website.
