The British Society of Soil Science is looking for an Editor-in-Chief to lead the team for a pre-eminent academic publication namely the Soil Use and Management Journal (SUM).
About Soil Use and Management
Soil Use and Management (SUM) is a leading international soil science journal focused on the impact of anthropogenic activities on phenomena and mechanisms which affect soil systems, within the larger context of natural processes, as applicable. Assessments of impacts on local to global environmental parameters, beyond the boundaries of managed systems are encouraged. Interdisciplinary studies, e.g. linking soil with climate change, biodiversity, global health, and the UN’s sustainable development goals, with strong novelty, wide implications, and unexpected outcomes are welcomed. These should inform policy makers and/or practitioners on all aspects of the sustainable use and management of soil resources. Along with the European Journal of Soil Science (EJSS), it is one of the internationally recognised, long standing academic journals of the British Society of Soil Science (BSSS).
About the British Society of Soil Science
BSSS was founded in 1947 by eminent British soil scientists with the aims of advancing the study of soil; being open to membership from all those with an interest in the study and uses of soil. BSSS has grown into an established international membership organisation and charity committed to the study of soil in its widest aspects. With over 900 members, it is funded primarily through income from publications and subscriptions. The Society acts as a forum for the exchange of ideas and provides a framework for representing the views of soil scientists to other organisations and decision-making bodies. It promotes research by organising several events and conferences each year and by the publication of its two scientific journals in partnership with Wiley. It promotes education through a number of initiatives aimed at schools, colleges and universities. The Society has a regular and varied programme of scientific conferences on a wide range of soil-related issues and hosted the World Congress of Soil Science in 2022, Glasgow on behalf of the International Union of Soil Sciences.
In 2010 the Society became an incorporated charity, merging with the Institute of Professional Soil Scientists. This means that the society now has membership representing all areas of soil science. The Society has an administrative office based at Cranfield University.
Learn more about the British Society of Soil Science.
Job Purpose
It is the role of the Editor-in-chief to work with the BSSS to oversee the strategic development of the journal, as well as to act as an ambassador for the journal. You will be a highly experienced soil scientist familiar with the editorial process of peer-reviewed journals. The Editor-in-chief has the final decision-making responsibility for the acceptance or rejection of all papers submitted to the journal. They must also adhere to and ensure that ethical standards are upheld throughout the entire publication process.
The post will be for an initial term of 3 years, with the option of renewal. The Editor-in-chief will be supported by the editorial office and will work closely with the Deputy Editors and Social Media coordinator and EIC/editorial teams from EJSS. As Editor you will receive training in the editorial processes and the online submission system, with regular training in publishing systems, ethics and marketing provided by the publisher.
About You
Being educated to post-graduate level and a member of BSSS, you will have significant relevant experience demonstrating an international track record in publishing high quality research in soil science.
As an internationally recognised scientist with an established international network with multiple academic institutes, you will drive the vision and strategic direction of the journal. Having a substantial track record working as part of an editorial team of a scientific journal, and a continued track record in submitting and peer-reviewing articles is key to success in this role. Demonstrating a track record of broader research in soil science, with an appreciation of multiple core areas of the discipline is also essential.
Job Description
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