Peer Review

For the purpose of the HERDC, an acceptable peer review process is one that involves impartial and independent assessment or review of the research publication in its entirety before publication, conducted by independent, qualified experts. Independent in this context means independent of the author.

Peer review is required for journal articles and conference publications. It is also required for books and book chapters that are not published by a commercial publisher.

Journal Article Peer Review

For journal articles, any of the followng are acceptable as evidence of peer review:
  • the journal is listed in Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List
  • there is a statement in the journal which shows that contributions are peer reviewed
  • there is a statement or acknowledgement from the journal editor which shows that contributions are peer reviewed
  • a copy of a reviewer's assessment relating to the article.

Conference Publication Peer Review

For conference publications, any of the following are acceptable as evidence of peer review:
  • there is a statement in the conference proceedings which shows that contributions are peer reviewed
  • there is a statement or acknowledgement from the conference proceedings editor which shows that contributions are peer reviewed
  • a copy of a reviewer's assessment relating to the conference paper.

Book and Book Chapter Peer Review

For books and book chapters that are not published by a commerical publisher any of the following are acceptable as evidence of peer review:
  • there is a statement in the book which shows that contributions are peer reviewed and in the case of book chapters, which indicates which chapters are peer reviewed, if this does not apply to all content
  • there is a statement or acknowledgement from the publisher or editor which shows that contributions are peer reviewed
  • a copy of a reviewer's assessment relating to the book or book chapter.


Important Note

A statement from an author that a publication was peer reviewed is not acceptable. The existence of a national or international advisory board is also not sufficient evidence that all relevant publications were assessed by members of it.