1. Overview

Synergy Publishers upholds a rigorous and transparent peer review policy to ensure the publication of high-quality, ethically sound research. By default, we employ a single-blind review process, where reviewers remain anonymous, but author identities are known. However, double-blind or open peer review models may be adopted depending on the journal’s editorial policy.
All submitted manuscripts -including research articles, reviews, and selected other contributions- are evaluated by at least two independent expert reviewers. Prior to peer review, every submission undergoes plagiarism screening using iThenticate and editorial screening for completeness, formatting, and ethical compliance.

2. Initial Editorial Screenin

All submissions are first evaluated by the editorial office to ensure:

• Completeness: All required files (manuscript, figures, supplementary data) are submitted.
• Formatting: The manuscript adheres to journal-specific style and template requirements.
• Ethics Compliance: statements of originality, author contributions, funding disclosures, and conflicts of interest are included.

Manuscripts that do not meet these standards may be desk-rejected or returned to authors for revision before peer review.

3. Reviewer Selection

Academic Editors select reviewers based on:

• Relevant subject matter expertise
• Independence and absence of conflict of interest
• Geographic, institutional and demographic diversity (including career stage, gender, institution)

Authors may suggest reviewers; while these suggestions are welcome, selection is made solely at the Editor’s discretion.

4. Review Process and Responsibilities

Invitation & Acceptance:

• Reviewers are expected to confirm availability within 3 days.
• If declining, reviewers are encouraged to suggest qualified alternatives.
• Extensions should be granted when necessary.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Soundness and reproducibility of the methodology
• Accuracy and validity of results and analyses
• Whether conclusions are supported by evidence

Report Quality:

• Provide detailed, objective, and constructive feedback.
• Clearly explain all criticisms or concerns with supporting rational.
• Avoid vague, personal or unprofessional comments.

Timeliness:

• Reviewers are expected to submit their reports within 2-3 weeks.
• Excessive delays may result in the manuscript being reassignment.

5. Conflicts of Interest

All reviewers must disclose any actual or perceived conflicts of interest (personal, financial, or academic). If a conflict is identified, the reviewer should decline the invitation or notify the editorial office immediately.

6. Confidentiality and Ethics

• All submissions under review are strictly confidential.
• Reviewers must not share, distribute, or retain copies of manuscripts.
• Any suspicion of plagiarism, data fabrication, or ethical misconduct must be reported to the Editor-in-Chief without delay.

7. Misconduct Handling

Any attempt at manipulating the peer review process, or other unethical practices of publication integrity will be handled in accordance with COPE guidelines. Possible actions include:

• Rejection of manuscript
• Publication of corrections or retractions
• Sanctions against authors or reviewers

8. Reviewer Recognition

At Synergy Publishers, we value the essential role reviewer play in maintaining research integrity. To acknowledge their contributions, we offer:

• Certificates of Contribution (upon request)
• Opportunities to join our Editorial Boards
• Annual recognition on our website (subject to reviewer consent)

9. Policy Review and Updates

This Peer Review Policy is reviewed annually by the Editorial Standards Committee. Last updated: August 2025. All significant changes updates will be communicated to the Editorial Board and posted publicly on the Synergy Publishers’ website.

For further questions, contact: policy@synergypublishers.com