Editors

We ensure that the highest quality of research is published in our journals, conference proceedings, books and databases by working with a broad spectrum of editors and peer reviewers – all of whom dedicate their time and expertise to helping authors improve their manuscripts.

Editors are champions for their disciplines and custodians of the scientific record, working to build successful journals and conferences for their community. They help ensure that our authors’ work commands the highest levels of quality and trust.

We do all we can to support our editors with tools, training and services to make their role easier, more successful and enjoyable.

Editing a journal

This guide for Journal Editors provides an overview of the role of Editor-in-Chief, advice on setting up and maintaining an Editorial Board, how to launch and manage a journal as well as develop an existing journal to achieve its full potential.

Resources & Tools

This collection of services available for Springer Nature Editors includes journal services such as the reviewer finder and transfer desk; information on our partnerships with services such as the Web of Science Reviewer Recognition Service; and case studies of exceptional Springer Nature Editors. It also features guidance for Editors on helping their journals to succeed.

Research Integrity

This page details how Editors can ensure the integrity of everything that they publish - and the ways in which Springer Nature can help them with that.

Codes of conduct

Journals

The Code of Conduct for Journal Editors sets out the standards and expectations associated with the role of Editor.

Book volumes

These guidelines set the standards of proper ethical behaviour and responsibilities for book editors (including proceedings, encyclopedia, handbook and textbook editors).

Book series

These guidelines set the standards of proper ethical behaviour and responsibilities for book series editors.

Free e-Learning courses

This collection of free e-Learning courses for Springer Nature Editors is intended to provide help for both new and experienced Editors. These courses provide an introduction to the fundamental aspects of the editorial role, and for specific or challenging situations that an Editor may face. All courses can be retaken and revisited whenever needed.

Code of conduct - Journals

The Publisher’s Code of Conduct sets out the standards and expectations associated with the role of Editor-in-Chief. This course provides you with an overview of the Code.

Editor Resources

Learn more about how to handle common editorial problems and situations according to best practice with these flowcharts and template letters.

Fundamentals of Peer Review

This course outlines the basics of the peer review process, including confidentiality and conflicts of interest. It explains how to identify the characteristics of a good reviewer and invite reviewers and how to assess peer review reports.

Research Ethics

Learn about different aspects of research ethics for editors, such as ethics approval requirements, informed consent to participate in research, ethics requirements for animal studies and requirements for clinical trial registration.

Plagiarism

Learn in depth about plagiarism, including the different types that exist, the practicalities of using Crossref Similarity Check, and how to assess and take action on any text overlap detected.

IRR service

Learn about the IRR (iThenticate Report & Response) service; an optional tool provided for journal editors by Springer Nature. This service analyses the Crossref Similarity Report and provides editors with a recommendation for new submissions.