Join the Editorial Board of the British Journal of Pharmacology (BJP)
Call for Applications: Senior Editors (from January 2026)
The British Journal of Pharmacology (BJP), published by the British Pharmacological Society, is seeking new Senior Editors to join its Senior Editorial Board from January 2026.
The journal seeks subject expertise in cancer, neuropharmacology, and respiratory pharmacology but will also welcome candidates with other relevant expertise.
Job reference:
Location:Worldwide
Category:Volunteer with us
Closing date:27 Oct 2025
Start date:01 Jan 2026
Contact:charles.whalley@bps.ac.uk
About the BJP
BJP is the flagship basic-science journal of the British Pharmacological Society (BPS). It publishes high-quality research across the full spectrum of basic pharmacology. Guided by the Society’s tradition and its 2025 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan, BJP is committed to rigour, transparency, and a publishing culture in which every voice in pharmacology can be heard.
This is a great opportunity to help shape the future of pharmacology publishing while supporting authors and Editors in a vibrant, collaborative community.
Journal Metrics
CiteScore - 14.4
Journal Impact Factor - 7.7
Acceptance rate - 20%
Submission to First Decision - 11 days
Encouragement to Apply
Studies have shown that women and individuals from underrepresented groups often only apply for roles if they meet 100% of the criteria, while others apply with just 60% alignment. If you meet the essential requirements and are enthusiastic about the role, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if you don’t tick every box.
Role Purpose
Senior Editors are the engine of BJP’s peer-review process and strategic development. Working closely with the Editor-in-Chief and a globally diverse Editorial Board, you will:
- Safeguard scientific quality and ethical standards
- Champion inclusive, bias-aware publishing
- Mentor Editors and early-career reviewers
- Help shape the journal’s future content and community reach
Key Responsibilities
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Editorial Oversight
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Oversee the full peer review process, makes final editorial decisions (accept/reject), and help set editorial strategy.
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Manuscript Flow
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Assign papers to Editors; review their recommendations and finalise decisions.
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Editorial Leadership
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Lead strategic initiatives, contribute to content planning (e.g., themed issues), and shape journal direction.
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Mentorship & Oversight
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Support and review Editor performance. Mentor new editors and early-career board members.
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Time Commitment
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Regular weekly engagement (2–3 hours or more).
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Board Participation
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Attend monthly calls, annual meetings, and strategic workshops as part of the journal’s core leadership.
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Journal Advocacy
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Act as an ambassador for the journal at conferences, within networks, and in public forums.
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EDI and Inclusion Leadership
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Promote submissions from under-represented regions and groups and proactively promote inclusive practices in authorship, peer review, and board recruitment. Model COPE and C4DISC principles on EDI.
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Skills & Experience
Essential criteria:
- Demonstrated expertise in pharmacology or closely related field
- Confidence in handling research outside of your primary field
- Prior editorial or peer-review experience
- A strong commitment to research integrity, open science, and inclusive publishing
- Ability to dedicate 2–3 hours per week on editorial work
Desirable criteria – it's great if you also have:
- Experience using ScholarOne (or a similar peer review systems)
- Experience supporting or mentoring editorial colleagues
- Active involvement in the BPS
- Previous editorial experience on the BJP
- Experience promoting journals or scientific work at meetings and events
Term, Time Commitment & Support
- Initial term: 4 years, (with the possibility of a 12-month extension, max 7 years)
- Honorarium: An editorial fee is offered in recognition of your contribution
- Free membership to the society
- Access to training and Society benefits including free meeting registration and journal access
- Full training will be provided
How to Apply
Please send a cover letter and CV to Charles Whalley, Head of Publishing (charles.whalley@bps.ac.uk) by 27th October 2025. Your cover letter should explain your alignment with the essential criteria, ideas for contributing to BJP’s development, and your approach to inclusive editorial practice.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
BPS is committed to broadening representation across gender, geography, career stage and class background. We especially welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including women, the Global South, disabled scientists and first-generation academics. Reasonable adjustments to the selection process will be provided upon request.