We’re currently recruiting for three Editor-in-Chief positions across our journals and a Science Editor for The Biochemist. Our current Editors-in-Chief have shared their experiences below to provide insight into what the position entails and to tell us more about their roles.

What attracted you to the position?

Professor Michael J. Ryan, Editor-in-Chief of Clinical Science said:

“From my perspective, it is an honour to even be considered for any Editor-in-Chief position. When a high impact/well respected journal like Clinical Science will consider you, it is an easy decision. While I am a cardiovascular researcher, I love science in general, so the broad scope of Clinical Science was very appealing to me. I was also fortunate to work with Clinical Science as an Associate Editor and was familiar with the excellence of the staff, Associate Editors, and journal content. Having a truly international team of colleagues from different scientific and leadership perspectives makes the job attractive.” 

What have you learnt about yourself while in the role?

Professor James Murphy, Editor-in-Chief of Biochemical Society Transactions shared:

“Being Editor-in-Chief has allowed me to learn about how different editorial offices and systems work, how to juggle competing demands, and how poorly anyone can predict what articles might cite well or be widely read by the community. The role has been a great opportunity to expand my horizons. I always thought of myself as having diverse scientific interests, but I’ve learned how to tap into different scientific networks through my involvement in the journal.”

What have you enjoyed most in the role?

Professor Michael J. Ryan, Editor-in-Chief of Clinical Science answered:

“By far, working with the Portland Press staff. They are experts, professional, leaders, supportive, and kind. This makes the job enjoyable and much easier. While the history of Clinical Science emphasises cardiovascular research, and I am a cardiovascular researcher, I really enjoy the breadth of work that we publish. We have a high impact international journal even as it is not specialised/focused on one topic.” 

What has been the biggest challenge?

Professor James Murphy, Editor-in-Chief of Biochemical Society Transactions said:

“We’re fighting the good fight for ethical publishing. All of the proceeds from Biochemical Society journals are returned to the Society to support initiatives for the scientific community. A big challenge has been the proliferation of less reputable, profiteering journals over the past few years. This has competed for content and made it very difficult to attract reviewers, who are fatigued by the volumes of manuscripts arising from journal proliferation and the lingering post-pandemic fatigue. Despite this, Biochemical Society Transactions is 51 years old and will continue to stand the test of time to serve our community.”

If the role of Editor-in-Chief or Science Editor sounds of interest to you, please visit the webpage below to apply.

Submit your application

Applications are open until midday on Monday 31 March 2025.