PEER REVIEW. More researchers need to become peer reviewers for scientific journals, according to Sam Polesie, who works as a doctor at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, an adjunct senior lecturer at the Institute of Clinical Sciences, and editor of the journal Acta DV. “It’s notoriously difficult to find reviewers, and yet the entire system is based on them,” he says.
Peer review is an important – but often overlooked – part of a researcher’s day-to-day life. In brief, it involves scientific manuscripts being assessed and reviewed by experts before they can be considered for publication in a scientific journal. The overall aim is to ensure the quality of research.
But Sam Polesie, a dermatology researcher who often looks for peer reviewers in his role as editor, finds that many are reluctant to take on this task.
“Many people may feel insecure about their competence, and may decline to review a manuscript that does not fall within their specific area of expertise,” he points out. “But that’s what peer review is actually all about – it gives you the opportunity to expand your knowledge within a subject area. Your knowledge and your input are valuable, even if the manuscript you are reviewing is in a related field.”
Fundamental to the scientific tradition
Peer review is about giving feedback on a manuscript. The researcher who submitted it will then have the chance to correct and develop it, and ideally then have their article published in the journal.
This system is a fundamental part of our scientific tradition. Sam also describes research as a cornerstone of university health care.
“Peer review is a requirement in order for researchers to get their manuscripts published. We want our own research to be reviewed and published, so we must of course be open to volunteering as peer reviewers and thereby give something back.”
Doctoral students can get involved
Sam explains that every published article has generally been reviewed by at least two researchers. Even those who are still carrying out their doctoral studies can volunteer as peer reviewers, and if they are even the least bit unsure, they can get support from a mentor or a supervisor with more experience in the field. They can also ask for feedback from an editor at the journal, providing an opportunity to improve their reports.
According to Sam, taking part in the system as a peer reviewer is extremely instructive – but also brings academic merit:
“For example, when applying for an associate professorship, you need to show which journals you have carried out peer reviews for. This sends a strong signal that you take responsibility, want to give back, and of course are also committed to your field.”
How long does it take to carry out such a review, roughly?
“Naturally, reviewing a manuscript takes a little longer the first few times. But once you’ve produced your template for the work and have found your methodology and style, it usually takes one to two hours per manuscript.”
What are the main advantages of being a peer reviewer?
“It offers an excellent insight into what’s happening within your field, or within related areas. Ideas that are simmering away right now can inspire your own research. You’ll also learn how to communicate in a constructive and respectful way by writing a good report. As a peer reviewer, you set the tone within your field. This may be particularly important to bear in mind in the context of social media and trolls. We’re fellow human beings, and we should help each other to move forward – including within research.”
BY: SAHLGRENSKALIV
