Interview with Graeme Watt, Executive Editor of EPL
EPL is a publication of the European Physical Society for more than 25 years. e-EPS spoke with Graeme Watt, executive editor of EPL since 2006.
What are the duties of an executive editor?
My role is to represent the journal to the scientific community and increase visibility by attending conferences, interacting with participants, developing a strategy for growth and development, devising promotion activities, and increasing opportunities available to authors and subscribers. I also have responsibility for ensuring the efficient production of each issue from submission through publication.
EPL is one of many physical journals. What is the particularity of these one?
It is a very broadband physics letters journal that invites short (up to 6 pages) articles that contain original and novel research, and require rapid publication. Promotion activities target those topics that have interdisciplinary aspects and/or application, while also maintaining strength in core areas (quantum optics, as well as several condensed matter topics).
Where and how are papers submitted and selected?
Submissions are made to the Editorial Office where they are allocated one of 50 specialist Co-Editors to oversee peer review. Co-Editors may make decisions without external reviewers, or may request reports from several experts. Certain articles may be identified for additional promotion (Editor’s Choice) or for fast-track production (accept to online within 11 days).
EPL was created in 1986 and you will publish your 100th volume. What was the greatest achievement from the beginning?
It is quite an achievement for any journal to continue successfully for over 25 years. EPL celebrated its silver anniversary in 2011 with a special ‘Frontiers of Physics’ event with presentations from key scientists covering a very broad selection of topics to an audience of around 200 including over 80 invited young researchers from EPL Association partner countries. Significant features introduced recently include an author-pays open access scheme, and sponsorship for events (often poster prize awards) encouraging young researchers. Increased visibility through mailshots and conference attendance is increasing awareness of the journal and the publishing opportunities.
What still to be done? How does the future of EPL look like?
The rebranding exercise in 2007 aimed to encourage new growth, offer new opportunities, attract more authors, and boost prestige. We try to ensure articles published are of the highest scientific quality. Subscriptions now reach over 2,600 institutes. However, there is still very much to be done as the publishing industry is continually changing. Keeping EPL at the forefront requires introducing new features that offer support for, and a user-friendly environment for, authors and readers. Thanks to all Co-Editors, referees, authors and readers for their continuing support. Please considering submitting to EPL – you might be surprised how helpful, friendly and efficient we can be.
