The Journal of Radiology and Oncology (JRO) employs a double-blind peer review process to maintain impartiality, fairness, and scientific rigor. Both reviewers and authors remain anonymous to each other to avoid conflicts of interest and bias.

Objectives of Peer Review

  • Ensure accuracy, originality, and relevance of submitted manuscripts.
  • Provide constructive feedback to improve the quality of submissions.
  • Maintain the highest ethical and academic publishing standards.
  • Support fair decision-making by the editorial board.

Types of Peer Review

JRO follows the double-blind system as default but may apply additional models where necessary:

  • Double-Blind Review: Author and reviewer identities are concealed (default).
  • Open Peer Review: In some cases, identities may be disclosed to increase transparency.
  • Post-Publication Review: Readers may provide comments and evaluations after publication.

Review Workflow

Step 1: Submission screening by the editorial office for compliance with guidelines.
Step 2: Assignment to an editor and selection of at least two qualified reviewers.
Step 3: Reviewers evaluate the manuscript and provide detailed comments.
Step 4: Editor assesses reviewer reports and makes a decision (accept, revise, reject).
Step 5: Authors revise (if needed) and resubmit for further review or acceptance.

Reviewer Guidelines

Reviewers are expected to:

  • Provide objective and constructive feedback.
  • Highlight strengths and weaknesses in the study design, methods, and conclusions.
  • Respect confidentiality of the manuscript.
  • Disclose conflicts of interest immediately.
  • Complete reviews within the agreed timeframe (typically 2–4 weeks).

Editorial Decision-Making

The final decision rests with the assigned handling editor, who considers reviewer comments, author responses, and the manuscript’s scientific value. Editorial independence is strictly upheld.

Ethics in Peer Review

  • All manuscripts are evaluated without regard to race, gender, institutional affiliation, or nationality.
  • Plagiarism or ethical concerns identified during review are reported to the editorial board immediately.
  • JRO follows COPE ethical guidelines for handling disputes.

Note: Authors may suggest potential reviewers but the editorial team retains the right to make final selections.

FAQs

How long does peer review take?

The average review time is 4–6 weeks, depending on reviewer availability and manuscript complexity.

Can authors appeal decisions?

Yes. Authors may appeal by submitting a formal request with evidence. Appeals are reviewed by a senior editor.

Are reviewers acknowledged?

Yes. Reviewers may be recognized through annual acknowledgments or reviewer recognition platforms (e.g., Publons).

© Journal of Radiology and Oncology (JRO). Licensed under CC BY 4.0. ISSN: XXXX-XXXX

Sources: Best practices synthesized from COPE, ICMJE, DOAJ.