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Peer review is an essential step in the publication of scientific research and, by extension, in the practice of science. Many researchers, however, may be excused for wondering “Why should I become a peer reviewer” given their already extensive burden.

This post will discuss peer review, why it is worthwhile to volunteer to be a peer reviewer, and how to get started. We will also learn about the opinions of some early-career researchers regarding peer review.

Peer-Review-Process

What does peer review entail and why is it important?

To ensure that solid, high-caliber research is published, peer review is essential. In essence, it is the unbiased evaluation of a research article by professionals on the subject. Its goal is to assess a manuscript’s quality and publication readiness.

Peer review serves as a type of quality control but it is also a very helpful source of input for researchers who want to make changes to their articles before they are published. Authors and reviewers should work together in a collaborative process to advance the work.

Can young researchers serve as peer reviewers?

The question “But don’t researchers need to be very experienced to be peer reviewers?” may be running through your mind. No, not always. Knowledge of the particular subject matter the paper addresses is the most crucial criterion for peer reviewers. And years of expertise aren’t necessarily necessary for that to be the case.

Five Reasons to Volunteer as a peer reviewer

There is no denying that scientists have a lot on their plates. Why therefore do a peer review? What advantages will assuming this new responsibility provide you? Let’s look at this…

  • Become a better writer

    The act of reviewing an article pushes you to think critically about what makes an article good (or not so good), unlike when you read articles as part of your study. This might have to do with how things are presented or written, or even how well things are explained. You can then use these realizations to polish and improve your work.

  • Enhance your career

    Though not all reviews are anonymous, various programs and organizations have been established recently to acknowledge the significant contribution of reviewers.

    We collaborate with Clarivate (previously Publons), for instance, so that researchers can demonstrate a thorough record of their reviewing work as proof of their subject-matter competence. Additionally, they can receive “merit” points for their efforts.  On your resume, you can also mention reviewing work. This is crucial because appointment or promotion committees searching for proof of professional service will be interested in the work you have done as a reviewer.

  • Continually update your thinking

    Reviewing grants you early access to the fascinating new research being conducted in your area of expertise. Additionally, peer review provides you a voice in the assessment and enhancement of this fresh work. As a result, you will be able to apply new techniques and ideas to your research far earlier than you would have been able to read about them in a final, published paper.

  • Join the community of a journal

    Many journals serve as the hub of a network of academics who discuss important topics and advancements in their discipline. Taking on the role of a reviewer is a fantastic method to participate in that community.

    You may have the chance to establish new relationships for potential future partnerships as a result. Additionally, reviewing frequently could be the first step toward joining the editorial board of the journal.

  • Contribute to preserving the integrity of scientific literature

    Peer review enables scientists and the general public to have faith in the reliability of the scientific method. By convincing funders and the general public that the results of the study are reliable, this is essential for ensuring that research can continue. The volume of research being published today makes it particularly challenging for editors to locate peer reviewers. You can be of assistance here.

How do you train to perform peer reviews?

You now fully support the concept of peer review, but what should you do next? Peer reviewers can be recruited in a few different methods. These consist of:

  • Getting in touch with a journal editor Journal editors are constantly on the lookout for fresh reviewers, especially those with experience in fields that are underrepresented in the journal’s pool of contacts. Email the editor directly of any journal you frequently read.
  • If you want a senior colleague to recommend you, ask them if they know someone familiar with your work, has experience with a journal, or routinely reviews. Inquire whether they would be willing to give the editor your information.
  • How do you train to perform peer reviews?
  • You now fully support the concept of peer review, but what should you do next? Peer reviewers can be recruited in a few different methods. These consist of:
  • Getting in touch with a journal editor Journal editors are constantly on the lookout for fresh reviewers, especially those with experience in fields that are underrepresented in the journal’s pool of contacts. Email the editor directly of any journal you frequently read.
  • If you want a senior colleague to recommend you, ask them if they know someone familiar with your work, has experience with a journal, or routinely reviews. Inquire whether they would be willing to give the editor your information.
  • edu and ResearchGate are two academic networking sites that provide options to develop a profile that editors searching for new reviewers can locate.
  • In many journals, authors who have written with them are added to their database of reviewers when they write a piece. Although you probably won’t produce a paper only for the chance to review it, submitting a research paper or book review is a fantastic approach to getting involved with the journal’s community.

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