editorial board
nounPronunciation: /ˌɛdɪˈtɔːriəl bɔːrd/
Also written as: EB
A group of expert scientists who provide strategic guidance and quality oversight for an academic journal. Board members typically assist with peer review coordination and editorial policy decisions.
Full Definition
An editorial board consists of distinguished researchers and academics who serve as advisors to a scientific journal's editor-in-chief. These experts help establish editorial policies, maintain scientific standards, and often participate in the peer review process by identifying suitable reviewers or reviewing manuscripts themselves. Board members are usually selected based on their expertise in specific research areas, publication record, and standing in the scientific community. They serve terms of typically 2-4 years and help ensure the journal maintains high scientific standards and editorial integrity.
Plain English
A team of well-respected scientists who help decide which research papers get published in a scientific journal and make sure the journal maintains high quality standards.
In Editorial Context
The authoritative body responsible for maintaining journal quality and reputation, whose composition directly affects a journal's credibility and ability to attract high-quality submissions from the research community.
Etymology & History
Concept developed as scientific publishing became more formalized and the need for expert oversight of academic journals increased post-World War II.
Originally small groups of senior academics, now often larger and more internationally diverse with rotating memberships.
Usage
"The journal's editorial board recommended establishing a new section dedicated to climate change impacts on plant stress responses."
Usage note: Distinct from editorial staff who handle day-to-day operations; board members are typically unpaid volunteers.
Context: Academic publishing, journal management, peer review systems
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Editorial team usually refers to employed staff, while editorial board refers to volunteer expert advisors.