Peer reviewers are the backbone of the academic publishing process. At the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (JPS), your contributions as a reviewer ensure the publication of scientifically sound, ethically responsible, and clinically relevant research in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. This guide outlines your role, expectations, and ethical obligations as a reviewer for the journal.

✦ 1. Role of the Reviewer

Reviewers are expected to:

• Provide constructive, impartial, and evidence-based evaluations of submitted manuscripts.
• Help authors improve the clarity, rigor, and impact of their work.
• Assist editors in making informed editorial decisions.
• Uphold the journal’s standards of scientific excellence and integrity.

✦ 2. Reviewer Responsibilities

2.1. Timely Response

• Accept or decline the invitation to review as soon as possible.
• Complete reviews within the requested timeframe (typically 14–21 days).
• If an extension is needed, notify the editorial office in advance.

2.2. Thorough Evaluation

When reviewing, consider the following:

• Originality: Does the manuscript offer new insights or approaches?
• Scientific Validity: Are the study design, methods, and analysis appropriate?
• Clinical Relevance: Are the findings significant to the pharmacy field?
• Clarity: Is the manuscript well-organized and clearly written?
• Ethical Compliance: Are there any signs of ethical issues or data concerns?

Use respectful, professional language. Focus on enhancing the manuscript’s quality - not critiquing the author personally.

2.3. Confidentiality

• Treat the manuscript as confidential and do not share or discuss it with others.
• Avoid using any content or data from the manuscript for personal or professional benefit.

✦ 3. Ethical Standards

3.1. Conflict of Interest

• Disclose any potential conflict (financial, academic, institutional, or personal).
• Recuse yourself from the review if a fair and unbiased evaluation is not possible.

3.2. Plagiarism and Misconduct

• Report any suspicion of plagiarism, duplicate publication, data manipulation, or unethical research practices to the editor immediately.

3.3. Objectivity and Respect

• Critique the content, not the authors.
• Avoid biased or discriminatory remarks in your review.
• Support claims and suggestions with references where appropriate.

✦ 4. Review Format and Feedback

Your review should include:

• A brief summary of the manuscript and its contributions.
• Specific comments on strengths and areas for improvement (methods, results, clarity, etc.).
• A recommendation (Accept, Minor Revision, Major Revision, Reject).
• Confidential comments to the editor (if needed).
• Avoid suggesting excessive self-citations.

✦ 5. Recognition and Rewards

At SCICONX Publishing, we recognize and value your contributions:

• Annual Reviewer Appreciation Certificates.
• Consideration for Editorial Board invitations based on review quality.
• Acknowledgment in the journal’s “Top Reviewers” listing.

✦ 6. Continuous Improvement

We encourage reviewers to stay current by:

• Attending peer review workshops.
• Engaging in SCICONX webinars and editorial forums.
• Sharing feedback with us to enhance the review process.

✉️ Contact Us

If you have questions about the manuscript, your role, or need further guidance, please reach out to: editor.pharmacy@sciconxjournals.com

Your dedication directly strengthens the integrity and quality of pharmaceutical science. We deeply appreciate your time, insight, and commitment.