Propose a Special Issue for IIIJ
IIIJ welcomes special issue proposals that bring together advances across laboratory, clinical, and computational research. We encourage interdisciplinary themes that demonstrate how findings translate across in vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches.
In Vitro
Mechanistic discovery and assay innovation
In Vivo
Translational validation and clinical impact
In Silico
Model driven discovery and prediction
Why Lead a Themed Collection
Scientific Leadership
Field Shaping Topics- Define emerging themes and research standards
- Highlight methodological advances and protocols
- Connect laboratory discovery to application
Translational Impact
Clinical Relevance- Showcase validation across living systems
- Engage clinicians and translational scientists
- Improve the pathway to real world adoption
Computational Visibility
Model Driven Insight- Promote data driven discovery and AI tools
- Encourage code sharing and reproducibility
- Build cross domain collaborations
What to Include in a Proposal
Provide a clear theme, scope, and rationale. Include a list of potential topics, expected article types, and a short description of the audience. Identify the lead guest editor and any co editors, along with affiliations and relevant experience.
Editorial Responsibilities
Guest editors work with the IIIJ editorial office to invite submissions, manage peer review, and ensure timely decisions. Final editorial decisions remain aligned with IIIJ policies to protect quality and ethical standards.
Timeline and Milestones
Most special issues run on a defined schedule with milestones for call for papers, submission deadlines, review cycles, and publication. A well structured timeline helps contributors plan and ensures on time delivery.
Quality and Scope Fit
Proposals should align with the IIIJ mission of integrating in vitro, in vivo, and in silico research. Interdisciplinary topics that demonstrate cross method validation are prioritized.
Key Components to Include
Suggested Timeline
Most special issues run over several months, including a call for papers period, peer review, revision, and final publication. Provide a realistic timeline that accounts for reviewer availability and author revision cycles. Clear milestones help keep the collection on track.
Outreach and Promotion
Guest editors are encouraged to invite leading researchers and promote the call within their networks. The journal supports outreach by listing the call on the website and sharing updates through editorial channels.
Reviewer and Editor Capacity
Proposals should consider the availability of qualified reviewers and editors. A balanced plan for reviewer recruitment helps maintain timely decisions and consistent standards throughout the collection. Include suggested reviewers if possible.
Special issues bring focused attention to emerging fields and accelerate cross disciplinary collaboration. We welcome proposals that highlight the full translational pathway.
Submit a Special Issue Proposal
Email your proposal to [email protected]. Our editorial team will review and respond with next steps and guidance. Draft call for papers text is welcome, and a brief list of potential contributors is helpful. International teams are encouraged, and multidisciplinary leadership is valued. Short proposals are acceptable, and we respond promptly. We welcome early ideas and can help refine scope.
