Part-time Associate Editor position in quantum science at Physical Review A

Physical Review A (PRA) is looking for a new part-time Associate Editor in the area of quantum science to join our team.

For more than 50 years, PRA has been publishing important developments in the rapidly evolving areas of AMO physics, quantum science, and related fundamental concepts. The journal is growing, and we are looking for someone working in the area of quantum science to join our team of editors on a part-time basis. The candidate would be expected to maintain their current academic position while serving as an editor for PRA.

The advertisement for the position can be found here, including further details about the expectations for this role, time commitment, how to apply, etc. We look forward to applications from qualified candidates. The deadline to apply is August 10th, 2024.

 

A few notes about the selection criteria:

 

(1) Current active involvement and stature in the relevant field of research. 

 

You should be publishing, and in good journals. Invited talks at or involvement in organisation of reputable conferences or awards can also serve as evidence of active involvement and stature in the field. Within quantum science there is an enormous breadth of sub-topics ranging from fundations to applications, so someone with experience in a wider variety of topics is likely to be preferred over someone with more narrow expertise. This is another reason why you should work on something a bit different after your PhD.

 

(2) An outstanding record as a referee and a demonstrated commitment to peer review. 

 

Serve as a good referee on papers when asked, obviously. If you haven't reviewed for APS, you can express your interest here. Write useful, constructive reports including suggestions on how the manuscript can be improved (even if you don't think it meets the standards of the journal). Return reports quickly and/or within the timeframe you promise. It's OK to decline if a paper is outside your expertise or you are too busy - we really appreciate fast responses. We don't have access to your referee record at other journals, so it is better to concentrate your refereeing service at a few publishers that you submit your own manuscripts too, rather than spreading your efforts across dozens of different publishers. Particularly for the case of for-profit publishers - if you don't publish with them why should you volunteer your time for their benefit?

 

(3) The ability to work within the editorial team and the desire to maintain the quality and reputation of the journal. 

 

Evidence of desire to maintain the quality and reputation of the journal can include service as a good referee and submitting your own good papers to the journal.