Peer-review and subject-matter editing is the backbone of scientific publishing. However, early-career researchers (ECRs) are given few opportunities to participate in the editorial process beyond reviewing articles. Thus, a disconnect exists: science needs high-quality editorial talent to conduct, oversee and improve the publishing process, yet we dedicate few resources to building editorial talent nor giving ECRs formal opportunities to influence publishing from within. ECRs can contribute to the publishing landscape in unique ways given their insight into new and rapidly developing publishing trends (e.g. open science). Here, we describe a two-way fellowship model that gives ECRs a "seat" at the editorial table of a field-leading journal. We describe both the necessary framework and benefits that can stem from editorial fellowships for ECRs, editors, journals, societies, and the broader scientific community.
Keywords: editorial fellowship; open science; scientific publishing; society journals; Early career researcher.
© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.