Commissioning Editor - Journal of Applied Ecology

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the direction of one of the leading journals in applied ecology. 

Contract: 3 years (Initial term of 1 year)

Stipend: £1500 per year

Location: Remote, anywhere in the world

Closing date: 31st July 2026

About us

Our vision is for nature and people to thrive in a world inspired by ecology. The British Ecological Society is the oldest of its kind in the world, with over 6000 members worldwide, we publish six successful journals, an ecological book series and a quarterly membership magazine, the Niche.

We actively value the diversity and wide range of perspectives that people from different backgrounds bring to their work, to ecology and to our Society.

About the Journal

Journal of Applied Ecology publishes novel, broad-reaching papers on the interface between ecological science and the management of the natural environment. The journal has excellent citation metrics, a diverse author and reviewer community, an engaged, international editorial board and a vibrant social media presence via X, Facebook and the Applied Ecologist Blog.

About the role

Journal of Applied Ecology is renowned for publishing high-quality primary research that shapes the field. Alongside this, our Reviews , Perspectives , Practitioner's Perspectives and Policy Directions play a vital role in setting the agenda—bringing new ideas to the fore and connecting ecological science with practice and policy. We are seeking a Commissioning Editor to champion and develop these influential article types, working closely with the journal’s leadership to identify potential authors, promote the journal and facilitate their publication.

This is an exciting opportunity for an active researcher with editorial experience beyond their core research area and strong connections across the ecological community. You will collaborate with a global editorial team—including Senior Editors, Associate Editors, the Assistant Editor and Managing Editor—to help shape the journal’s voice and direction. We are looking for someone who is collaborative, forward-thinking and motivated by the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the field.

This is a part time role, based at the role holder’s institution. We predict this role will take on average one hour a week, with some variability.

Responsibilities

• Identify timely areas of applied ecology research: In collaboration with the Senior Editors and BES staff, identify key areas of focus for the journal
• Commission high-quality papers: In collaboration with the Editorial Office, encourage submission of proposed manuscripts around priority areas for the journal 
• Act as decision making editor: Handle Reviews, Perspectives, Practitioner’s Perspectives and Policy Directions both solicited and unsolicited as decision making editor
• Promote understanding: Help authors strengthen their understanding of the journal’s scope and article types by fielding pre-submission enquiries on special article types
• Work collaboratively: Communicate and act in a way that contributes to a positive, inclusive editorial environment.

Requirements

Essential

• Background in ecology or a related discipline.
• Clear, accessible written communication.
• Understanding of the wider ecological field and the value of different forms of articles in accessing ecological practitioners and policy makers
• Experience as an academic editor, handling peer review and recommendations or decisions
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• Commitment to the BES values: equity, sustainability, collaboration, and integrity

Desirable

• Experience working on Special Features or discreet editorial projects for peer reviewed journals

Benefits

• Receive free BES membership for one year, then 50% thereafter
• Qualify for free registration to the BES Annual Meeting
• Attain evidence of your standing and authority in your field of research which can contribute to academic career progression

The role is for an initial term of 1 year and paid a remuneration of £1,500 p.a.