Reviewers play an essential part in science and in scholarly publishing. For more than 300 years, scientists and scholars have relied upon peer review to validate research, engage other specialists in the support of submitted work, and increase networking possibilities within specific specialist communities.
Although in recent years the peer review process has attracted some criticism, it remains the only widely accepted method for research validation and a cornerstone of the scientific publishing process.
Elsevier, like most scientific publishing companies, relies on effective peer review processes to uphold not only the quality and validity of individual articles, but also the overall integrity of the journals we publish.
Check out our Reviewers' Update: Information on developments in peer review, the Elsevier submission & peer review system and other ways to support reviewers in their important task to safeguard the scientific quality of journals.
Why Reviewers Review
Most reviewers are authors, researchers, or sometimes editors in their own right. The peer review process allows these authors and editors an opportunity to use and develop their own expertise in a number of significant ways.
By assessing the quality and validity of another author’s work, within the same area of expertise, reviewers:
Uphold the integrity of the journal by identifying invalid research, as well as helping to maintain the quality standards of the journal
Fulfill a sense of duty to the scientific community and their own area of concentration
Establish relationships with reputable journals and may also increase their opportunities to be invited to join an Editorial Board
Reciprocate the same courtesy shown to them when other reviewers review their own authored works
Establish their expertise in and knowledge of the field
Increase their reputation and exposure in the field
Stay up to date and “in the loop” with respect to their discipline’s literature
Have access to the very latest research and discoveries in the field prior to colleagues
Learn about their discipline as well as exercise the critical thinking skills essential to the practice of science.
Many of our journals' Guide for Authors contain information about the peer review policy and have important information on aims and scope of the journal, which will be useful for reviewers
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