Journal Editors' Code of Conduct

In one respect the role of an Editor-in-Chief is fairly straightforward: to ensure that the journal publishes good quality research. However the position is multi-faceted and requires Editors-in-Chief to perform a variety of tasks and interact with a wide range of people. 

More general information on the role of a Journal Editor at Springer Nature can be found in our Editors’ Information Pack.

The Code of Conduct for Editors sets out the standards and expectations associated with the role of Editor. These requirements are based on guidelines and best practice recommendations issued by organizations such as the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). Adhering to these will ensure that you are working to the highest standard of editorial practice. 

Springer Nature is a member of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). COPE is an advisory body which provides guidance to editors and publishers on all aspects of publication ethics.

As members, we are committed to:

  1. Adhere to their Core Practices.
  2. Follow COPE guidelines outlining how to deal with cases of potential publication misconduct.

We aspire to a positive and proactive approach to preventing publication misconduct and encouraging sound and reliable research practices.

The Editor-in-Chief is responsible for guaranteeing, a far as possible, the quality and ethics of everything that is published in the journal. A Handling Editor (whether this is an Associate Editor, Section Editor, Region Editor, Special Guest Editor and so forth) should also take responsibility for ensuring the quality of manuscripts which are accepted.

All Editors work to maintain the highest standards of editorial practice for their journals and we have a clear framework of policies, processes and guidelines designed to help them achieve this.

Springer Nature Code of Conduct

Editors follow the minimum standards as set out in the Springer Nature Code of Conduct for Editors.

COPE


Diversity, equity and inclusion


Peer review


Manuscript handling


Confidentiality


Libelous and defamatory content


Editorial policies and field-specific standards


Human subjects, data and tissue


Animals used for research, education and testing


DURC


Conflicts of interest of Editor(s)


Complaints, appeals and post-publication issues


Miscellaneous