Conflict of Interest

As a reviewer, it is essential to ensure the integrity and impartiality of the review process. This section reminds you of the importance of declaring any potential conflicts of interest (COI) that could compromise your ability to provide an unbiased evaluation of the manuscript.

  1. Definition of Conflict of Interest
    A conflict of interest occurs when a reviewer has a personal, professional, or financial interest in the outcome of the review process. This could include any situation where the reviewer’s objectivity may be influenced by relationships with the author(s), research funding sources, or competing research interests.
  2. Types of Conflicts of Interest
    Common examples of conflicts of interest include, but are not limited to:
  • Personal relationships: If you have a close personal relationship with the author(s) or anyone affiliated with the manuscript, such as family members or close friends.
  • Professional relationships: If you have collaborated with the author(s) on past research projects or have a current professional affiliation, such as being a colleague at the same institution or working together on a grant.
  • Financial interests: If you have financial interests that could be affected by the outcome of the review, such as investments in a company that could benefit from the publication or research findings.
  • Competing research: If the manuscript is in direct competition with your own ongoing research, and the results could influence your work.
  • Previous disagreements or disputes: If there has been a history of professional disagreement or dispute with the author(s) that might affect your impartiality.
  1. Your Responsibility
    It is your responsibility to identify any potential conflicts of interest and disclose them to the editorial team. Transparency in this process ensures that the review remains fair and unbiased. If you are uncertain whether a situation constitutes a conflict of interest, it is better to disclose it.
  2. Disclosure Process
    Before you begin the review process, you will be asked to disclose any conflicts of interest on the review platform. If you identify a conflict, please select the appropriate option and provide details. This will help the editor determine whether you should proceed with the review or if another reviewer should be assigned.
  3. When to Recuse Yourself
    If you have a significant conflict of interest that could influence your evaluation of the manuscript, it is advisable to recuse yourself from the review process. In these cases, inform the editorial team promptly, and they will assign the review to another qualified expert.
  4. Ethical Integrity
    The goal of the review process is to uphold the highest standards of academic quality and fairness. By declaring any potential conflicts of interest, you help maintain the objectivity and credibility of the review process.

If you have any questions or concerns about potential conflicts of interest, please do not hesitate to contact the editorial team for guidance.