AAS Journals - Scientific Editor

The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is soliciting applications from candidates for a position as Scientific Editor for the AAS Journals. This work will support publications in The Astrophysical Journal, The Astrophysical Journal Letters, The Astrophysical Journal Supplements, The Planetary Science Journal and the Astronomical Journal. Our journals are currently receiving a record number of submissions and we have an urgent need for qualified editors.  The search will be conducted by Ethan Vishniac, the current Editor in Chief of the AAS Journals, in consultation with the editorial board and the Publications Committee of the AAS.  We are looking for candidates that have a record of achievement in their fields, with particular emphasis on exoplanet atmospheres, stars, pulsars and the application of machine learning to research. Previous editorial experience is not required but we do prefer candidates with a history of publishing in our journals. We are committed to increasing diversity on our editorial board, so that it reflects the broad geographic and cultural diversity of our author community.

This is a part time position and should be held in conjunction with an academic or research appointment at a home institution.  A Scientific Editor is expected to devote approximately 10% of their time to coordinating peer review of submitted manuscripts. Compensation will include a modest stipend, currently $15k USD per year, a waiver allowance at the AAS journals, and support for equipment and travel necessary to their work. Their responsibilities will include
 

1. Finding qualified referees for journal articles, evaluating their reports and mediating the subsequent correspondence with the authors.
2. Maintaining high scientific standards for articles published in the AAS journals and the integrity of the review process.

2. Whenever necessary, consulting with relevant experts on the Editorial Board of the AAS Journals (https://journals.aas.org/editorial/), and responding to requests for technical assistance from them. These consultations may include purely scientific questions about submissions or even requests for editorial handling of a submission that falls within a Science Editor’s area of expertise.
3. Participating in the annual editorial meetings.

Candidates for this position should submit a cover letter,  and a copy of their CV to [email protected]. Selected candidates will be asked to provide a letter from their institution supporting their commitment to editorial work.

The cover letter should address the candidate's qualifications, and reason for interest in the position. Applications submitted by May 15, 2025 will be given full consideration. AAE/EOE.