Conducts initial administrative screening to ensure completeness of submission files (author forms, ethics approval, fee receipt, etc.).
Returns incomplete submissions to authors for correction before further processing.
Editor / Handling Editor:
Performs technical and content triage to assess scope, originality, and scientific merit.
Makes initial editorial decisions (reject, return for revision, or send for external review).
Selects and invites appropriate peer reviewers.
Evaluates reviewer feedback and makes final recommendations for acceptance, revision, or rejection.
Ensures that all editorial actions comply with COPE and ICMJE ethical standards.
Editorial Board Members:
May serve as subject experts for triage or peer review.
Advise the Editor-in-Chief on policy, scope, and publication standards.
May participate in rapid review or in adjudicating conflicting reviewer opinions.
Chief Editor:
Has the final authority for all editorial decisions, including acceptance or rejection.
Ensures editorial independence, integrity, and adherence to journal policies.
Oversees resolution of ethical issues and complaints, as per COPE flowcharts.
Managing Editor:
The Managing Editor (ME) functions as the operational lead of the journal’s editorial process.
They ensure smooth manuscript flow from submission to publication, maintain communication with authors, reviewers, and editors, and uphold adherence to journal policies, timelines, and ethical standards.
While the Editor-in-Chief has final authority on editorial decisions, the Managing Editor ensures efficient execution of these decisions.
Copyeditor / Production Team:
Responsible for formatting, grammar, and technical consistency after acceptance.
Prepares final galley proofs and coordinates author approval before publication.