Prominent peer-reviewed journals in animal science have collaborated on a groundbreaking article titled "Values Shared by Journals of Learned Societies, Associations, and Scientific Institutions in Animal Science". This joint effort emphasises the critical need to uphold scientific quality standards and integrity, ensure rigorous peer review, and embrace responsible publishing practices in an increasingly author-driven landscape.

The article will be simultaneously published by the following journals:
•    animal and animal – open space (Elsevier Limited on behalf of the animal Consortium)
•    Journal of Dairy Science and JDS Communications (Elsevier Limited on behalf of the American Dairy Science Association)
•    Poultry Science and Journal of Applied Poultry Research (Elsevier Limited on behalf of the Poultry Science Association)
•    Journal of Animal Science and Translational Animal Science (Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Society of Animal Science)

Scientific publishing has undergone a tremendous change in recent years. The move towards open access publishing has shifted the financial model in scientific publishing. Authors now bear the cost of publication, creating an author-driven market where income precedes the product. This shift presents challenges, including pressures on publishers to accept articles quickly and on researchers to publish frequently to advance their careers. Both dynamics can strain the peer-review process, potentially compromising its depth and thoroughness.

Challenges in Peer Review and the Role of Society-Owned Journals
One significant challenge highlighted in the article is the growing difficulty of securing reviewers. The peer-review system, widely regarded as a “mark of quality,” depends on the expertise and voluntary contributions of the scientific community. However, many scientists face time constraints that limit their ability to act as reviewers, leaving journals to grapple with maintaining the integrity of the process.

In this shifting landscape, journals owned by scientific societies and institutions play a critical role. As not-for-profit publications, they are driven by their mission to serve the scientific community rather than commercial gain. Their guiding principle—"For scientists, by scientists"—prioritises the publication of sound and reliable research. By promoting and defending scientific integrity within their communities, society-owned journals ensure that rigorous standards are maintained even amidst market pressures.

Jaap van Milgen, Chairman from the animal Consortium commented:

"The role of society and institution-owned journals is more important than ever in an open-access world. We are committed to prioritising scientific quality and reliability above market trends, ensuring that the needs of science and society are at the forefront of publishing."
The article serves as a call to action for the scientific community to navigate these challenges collaboratively. It underscores the shared responsibility of researchers, reviewers, and publishers in safeguarding the credibility and utility of animal science research for the global community.

The full article is now available through participating journals' platforms - https://animal-journal.eu/