Editorial Board Selection and Appointment Policy

Editorial Board Selection and Appointment Policy

Axis Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (AJHRS)

1.0 Policy Objective

The primary objective of this policy is to establish a clear, transparent, and merit-based framework for the identification, selection, and appointment of all editorial board members for the Axis Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (AJHRS). This process is designed to ensure that our editorial leadership comprises distinguished individuals who embody the highest standards of academic excellence, ethical integrity, and professional dedication, thereby safeguarding the journal's quality and reputation.

2.0 Scope and Applicability

This policy applies to the selection and appointment of all editorial roles within AJHRS, including but not limited to:

  • Editor-in-Chief

  • Associate Editors

  • Section Editors

  • Members of the Editorial Advisory Board

3.0 Core Eligibility and Qualification Criteria

Prospective editors are expected to fulfill the following essential criteria to be considered for a role:

  • Academic Credentials: Possession of a terminal advanced degree (e.g., Ph.D., D.Sc., Ed.D., MD) in a field directly relevant to the health and rehabilitation sciences.

  • Scholarly Expertise: A demonstrated, strong, and sustained record of high-quality research and scholarly publication in reputable, peer-reviewed journals within their discipline.

  • Editorial Experience: Proven experience in academic publishing, which may include prior roles as an editor, guest editor, or extensive, high-level peer review for reputable journals.

  • Professional Reputation: An international reputation for scholarly integrity, objectivity, fairness, and ethical conduct within the academic community.

  • Commitment and Availability: A demonstrated ability and commitment to dedicate the necessary time and effort to fulfill the responsibilities of the editorial role effectively and in a timely manner.

4.0 The Selection and Appointment Process

The process for selecting editors is designed to be rigorous, fair, and inclusive:

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

  • Application and Nomination: The journal welcomes both self-nominations (applications) and nominations of other qualified individuals. A complete application package typically includes:

    • A full and current curriculum vitae.

    • A letter of interest outlining the candidate's qualifications and motivation.

    • A brief vision statement describing the candidate's perspective on the future direction of the journal and their potential contribution to its growth.

  • Committee Review: A specially convened Search Committee, comprising existing senior editorial board members and, where appropriate, external subject matter experts, will confidentially review all applications against the stated eligibility criteria.

  • Interview Stage: Short-listed candidates may be invited for an interview (conducted virtually) with the Search Committee. This stage assesses the candidate's vision, strategic thinking, and alignment with the journal's ethos and goals.

  • Final Appointment: The Search Committee's recommendations are presented to the journal's publisher or governing body for final review and official appointment. Successful candidates are issued a formal letter of appointment outlining their roles, responsibilities, and term.

5.0 Term of Service and Reappointment

  • Editorial appointments are typically made for a term of three (3) years.

  • Service may be renewed for subsequent terms based upon a satisfactory performance review, which assesses diligence, timeliness, and the individual's contribution to the journal's development. There is no automatic right to reappointment.

6.0 Conflict of Interest Disclosure

All applicants must fully disclose any personal, professional, financial, or institutional conflicts of interest that could be perceived as influencing their editorial judgment. The disclosure is a mandatory part of the application process and is a critical factor in the selection committee's evaluation to preserve the journal's integrity.

7.0 Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Global Representation

AJHRS is deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within its editorial leadership. We actively strive to build an editorial board that reflects a broad spectrum of expertise, geographic representation, gender identity, ethnicity, and career stage, enriching the journal's perspective and intellectual discourse.

8.0 Policy Review

This Editor Selection Policy is subject to a periodic review (biannually) to ensure it remains aligned with best practices in academic publishing and continues to effectively serve the strategic needs of AJHRS. Amendments will be approved by the Editor-in-Chief in consultation with the editorial board.