Editor Selection Policy

Axis Journal of Medical and Biosocial Sciences (AJMBS)

Objective

The Axis Journal of Medical and Biosocial Sciences (AJMBS) is committed to upholding the highest editorial and ethical standards in scholarly publishing. This policy outlines a transparent, merit-based, and inclusive framework for the selection and appointment of editors to ensure that the journal’s leadership reflects integrity, expertise, and diversity in medical and biosocial sciences.

Scope

This policy applies to all editorial positions within AJMBS, including:

Editor-in-Chief
Associate Editors
Section Editors
Managing Editors and Technical Editors (where applicable)

The policy also provides guidelines for the evaluation, appointment, and renewal of editorial roles under Axis Exploration & Academics (Private) Limited.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure editorial excellence and professional credibility, candidates for any editorial role must meet the following criteria:

Academic Qualifications
- Possess a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, DPT, or equivalent) in a field relevant to medical, clinical, or biosocial sciences.
Research and Publication Record
- Demonstrate a strong record of peer-reviewed publications in recognized international or national journals.
- Exhibit familiarity with scholarly communication practices and emerging trends in academic publishing.
Editorial and Peer Review Experience
- Have prior experience as an editor, associate editor, reviewer, or member of an editorial advisory board in a reputable journal.
Ethical and Professional Conduct
- Uphold the ethical principles outlined by COPE and ICMJE.
- Maintain a reputation for professionalism, impartiality, and commitment to academic integrity.
Commitment and Availability
- Demonstrate the capacity and willingness to devote adequate time and effort to fulfilling editorial responsibilities, including managing submissions, coordinating reviews, and overseeing publication processes.

Selection Process

The editorial selection and appointment process at AJMBS is structured to ensure transparency, fairness, and merit-based evaluation, consisting of the following stages:

Nomination and Announcement
- Editorial vacancies are publicly announced on the AJMBS website and relevant academic platforms.
- Nominations and self-nominations are accepted to encourage a broad and diverse pool of candidates.
Application Submission
- Interested candidates must submit:
  - A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting academic, editorial, and research achievements.
  - A statement of interest explaining their motivation for joining the editorial team.
  - A vision statement outlining goals for enhancing the journal’s quality, reach, and academic impact.
Review and Evaluation
- A Selection Committee—comprising the Editor-in-Chief, senior editorial board members, and at least one independent external expert—evaluates all applications.
- Evaluation focuses on:
  - Editorial experience and expertise in the relevant domain.
  - Leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
  - Ethical judgment and alignment with the journal’s mission.
Interview Process
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview (in person or virtual) to discuss their editorial philosophy, management approach, and familiarity with ethical publishing practices.
Final Selection and Appointment
- The selection committee’s recommendations are submitted to the governing body of Axis Exploration & Academics (Pvt) Ltd for final approval.
- Selected editors are formally appointed through an official letter of appointment, detailing term duration, responsibilities, and ethical obligations.

Term and Responsibilities

Editors are appointed for a fixed term of three to five years, renewable based on satisfactory performance, contribution, and adherence to journal policies.
Primary responsibilities include:
- Overseeing manuscript screening and peer review coordination.
- Ensuring adherence to ethical publishing practices.
- Guiding the journal’s strategic direction and thematic development.
- Contributing to the recruitment of qualified reviewers and editorial advisors.
- Promoting the journal within the academic and research communities.

Performance reviews are conducted periodically to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

All editorial candidates and current editors must declare any financial, academic, or personal conflicts of interest that could influence their editorial duties.
Disclosures are reviewed by the governing board prior to appointment or reappointment.
Editors are required to recuse themselves from handling manuscripts involving personal collaborators, institutional colleagues, or other potential conflicts.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

AJMBS is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its editorial leadership.
Efforts are made to ensure representation across geographic regions, gender, disciplines, and institutional affiliations.
The journal values inclusive participation, believing that diverse perspectives enrich editorial decision-making and scientific dialogue.

Training and Development

Newly appointed editors receive an orientation package covering journal policies, ethical guidelines, and editorial management tools.
AJMBS periodically organizes editorial training sessions on emerging issues in peer review, publishing ethics, and digital scholarship.

Policy Review and Amendments

This policy is reviewed biennially by the Editorial Board and updated in accordance with international best practices and COPE recommendations.
Revisions are approved by the governing body and communicated transparently on the journal’s official website.

Conclusion

Through this transparent and merit-based selection framework, the Axis Journal of Medical and Biosocial Sciences (AJMBS) ensures that its editorial leadership embodies excellence, integrity, and inclusivity. By appointing qualified professionals committed to advancing ethical and impactful research, AJMBS strengthens its role as a credible platform for multidisciplinary scientific discourse.