Peer Review Policy

Duties of Reviewers
The peer review process is a cornerstone of editorial decision-making at the Journal of Soil Future Research (JSFR). Reviewers play a critical role in maintaining the quality and credibility of published research. By offering thoughtful, constructive feedback, they assist the editorial team in making informed publication decisions and help authors refine their manuscripts—particularly in the context of innovations and advancements in soil science and future-oriented sustainable soil management practices. JSFR strongly encourages all researchers dedicated to advancing soil science to actively participate in the peer review process.

Timeliness
Reviewers are expected to complete their reviews within the established timelines. If a reviewer feels unqualified to assess a manuscript (e.g., due to unfamiliarity with specific soil-related methodologies) or anticipates delays, they should promptly inform the editorial office and decline the review invitation. This allows the journal to assign alternate reviewers in a timely manner and ensures efficient dissemination of research in the field of soil science.

Confidentiality
Manuscripts under review are strictly confidential. Reviewers must not share, discuss, or disclose the contents of the manuscript with unauthorized individuals unless explicitly authorized by the Editor-in-Chief. This confidentiality is essential to uphold the integrity of the peer review process, especially when dealing with novel data or experimental methods in soil research.

Objectivity and Constructive Feedback
Reviews must be impartial and focused on the scientific merit of the manuscript, not the identity of the authors. Reviewers should provide well-supported, clear feedback that helps authors improve their work, particularly in relation to experimental design, data interpretation, and the implications of findings for soil sustainability and future agricultural applications. Personal or unprofessional comments are strictly discouraged.

Acknowledgment of Sources
Reviewers are encouraged to suggest citation of relevant work that may have been overlooked, especially seminal studies or recent findings in soil science. They should alert the editorial team if they detect substantial overlap or similarity between the manuscript under review and other published or unpublished works, particularly where innovative approaches to soil sustainability are concerned.

Disclosure and Conflicts of Interest
Reviewers must disclose any potential conflicts of interest arising from personal, professional, or financial relationships with the authors or their institutions. In such cases, they should recuse themselves from the review process. This ensures transparency and fairness in the evaluation of all submissions.

Additionally, reviewers must not use unpublished information from a manuscript for personal advantage or in their own research without explicit permission from the authors. All information obtained during the review process must remain confidential, even if the reviewer declines the invitation to review.

By following these guidelines, the Journal of Soil Future Research promotes a fair, rigorous, and transparent peer review process that supports the highest standards of ethical scholarly publishing in soil science.