The Current Editor-in-Chief: Professor Lauren Ball
Professor Lauren Ball, based at the University of Queensland, currently serves as the Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics (JHND). She assumed this role at the end of 2023, following prior experience as an associate editor. Professor Ball is an Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian and an Exercise Physiologist, bringing a blend of clinical and academic expertise to her leadership of the journal. Her role is crucial in overseeing the publication process and maintaining the journal's high academic standards.
The Significance of the Editorial Role
The Editor-in-Chief is responsible for managing the peer review process, ensuring the scientific integrity of published research, and guiding the journal's strategic direction to cover relevant areas in nutrition and dietetics. This leadership is essential for a journal that publishes extensively on applied practice.
The Editorial Transition: From Langley-Evans to Ball
Professor Ball succeeded Professor Simon Langley-Evans, who was Editor for 11 years before stepping down at the end of 2023. Professor Langley-Evans significantly contributed to the journal's reputation and introduced key innovations like online-only and open-access publishing. The transition to Professor Ball's leadership ensures the journal's continued evolution while upholding its core principles.
Comparison of Recent Editors-in-Chief
| Feature | Professor Lauren Ball | Professor Simon Langley-Evans |
|---|---|---|
| Tenure Start | Late 2023 | 2012 |
| Tenure End | Current | Late 2023 |
| University | University of Queensland | University of Nottingham (former) |
| Clinical Background | Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian, Exercise Physiologist | None mentioned, first non-dietitian editor |
| Innovations | Continues digital and open access initiatives | Introduced online-only, open access publishing |
The Journal's Mission and Scope
The Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics is an international, peer-reviewed journal covering a wide range of topics in nutrition and dietetics. Published bimonthly by John Wiley & Sons for the British Dietetic Association, it serves researchers and clinicians globally.
The journal publishes research across various areas, including:
- Clinical nutrition and dietetic practice
- Public health nutrition
- Dietary assessment
- Health interventions
- Obesity and weight management
- Eating behavior
- Molecular nutrition
This broad scope supports the journal's goal of providing evidence-based knowledge to inform practice and policy. The journal is recognized for its authority in the field.
Conclusion
Professor Lauren Ball's appointment as Editor-in-Chief represents a positive step for the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. Her extensive background as a dietitian and exercise physiologist, coupled with her academic experience, is well-suited to guide the journal's future. Following Professor Simon Langley-Evans' impactful tenure, Professor Ball is set to continue the journal's tradition of excellence, providing valuable research to the international nutrition and dietetics community.
For further details on the journal, including its scope and submission guidelines, the official website is a valuable resource.
