Call for Reviewers-Journal of African Population Studies (JAPS)
The Journal of African Population Studies (JAPS) is a biannual, peer-reviewed journal that publishes original research articles, reviews, commentaries, letters, and case studies on topics related to the disciplines represented by the Union for African Population Studies. JAPS is the Official Journal of UAPS and is dedicated to publishing high-quality research that support evidence-based interventions, policies, and practices. (Archives for 2021 and beyond can be found here).
The journal is recruiting new reviewers that are experts in demography, population studies, public health, epidemiology, social statistics, population geography, development studies, economics and other social sciences that deal with population and development interrelationships that are unique and relevant to Africa and global audience and will help to guarantee the publication of high-quality manuscripts in the journal.
We offer an opportunity for Early-Career researchers who wish to start reviewing manuscripts under the supervision of a member of the Editorial Board.
Eligibility Criteria
Regular Reviewers
- Possess a doctorate degree (PhD)
- Have more than five years of experience (after their doctoral degree) in the population health field
- Have expertise in the process of reviewing manuscripts
Early Career Researchers
- Be a doctoral student, postdoctoral scholar, or researcher with less than five years of experience (after their doctoral degree)
- Be interested in developing expertise in the peer-review process in the population health field.
Application and Selection Process
To register your interest, please fill in this form.
Application ends: 30 December 2024
The journal editorial board will analyse applications, and selected candidates will be added to our reviewer database (you will receive a notification via email by 30th January 2025). After which you will be contacted as soon as we have a manuscript that matches your specialty area.
Training and Development Opportunities for ECRs
As part of training for Early Creer Researchers, you can complete the Certified Peer Reviewer course, a very brief (3+ hours) online course by Elsevier. Additional development sessions will be offered in the future as part of the mentoring process.
For further information and/or assistance, kindly contact Ms. Makafui Dordoh, the Editorial Assistant at assist.japs@uaps-uepa.org.
Note: Candidates from different disciplines are encouraged to apply, particularly those interested in the broader field of population health including the field of mental health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, violence prevention, etc…. Applicants that are interested in population health methodology, research methods, and different qualitative and quantitative study designs in population health, are also very welcome.
Benefits and Incentives:
Recognition and Professional Development:- Public Acknowledgment: Reviewers will be recognized in the Journal of African Population Studies (JAPS) or on the UAPS website, with their names listed in a dedicated section for each issue or annually. This section will highlight Excellent Reviewers, distinguished by their consistent delivery of high-quality, thorough, and timely reviews. Recognition will be based on both the frequency of reviews and the depth of analysis and constructive feedback provided.
- Certificates and Badges: Reviewers will receive certificates of appreciation, and letters acknowledging their contributions. These can be added to CVs or professional profiles, enhancing their academic credentials and showcasing their commitment to advancing research in their field.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Early-career reviewers will have the opportunity to be paired with experienced reviewers from the JAPS editorial team. This mentorship program will support skill development, provide guidance on the peer review process, and foster professional connections. Additionally, a webinar series focused on peer review and professional development will be introduced, providing valuable learning resources tailored to early reviewers.
- Editorial Board Consideration: Reviewers who consistently demonstrate high levels of expertise and commitment may be considered for invitations to join the JAPS editorial board. This pathway supports career advancement and offers reviewers a more significant role in the journal’s editorial process.
- Networking: Reviewers will have the chance to connect with like-minded scholars and researchers, building a professional network within their field. Engaging with this community fosters collaboration and also provides access to diverse perspectives and expertise in population studies and related disciplines.
- Discounted Attendance at African Population Conferences: Reviewers will benefit from a discounted fee to attend the African Population Conferences, providing further opportunities for professional development and networking.
- Webinars and Workshops for Capacity Strengthening: The publisher will organize a series of webinars and workshops specifically for reviewers, with a focus on capacity strengthening and professional growth. These sessions will be especially beneficial for early-career reviewers, equipping them with skills and knowledge to enhance their reviewing capabilities.
Invitations to Conferences and Events: Reviewers may receive discounted or complimentary access to conferences, workshops, or webinars organized by the publisher, enabling them to stay informed about the latest research developments and engage with thought leaders in the field.
