Associate Editor, Physics Of Living Systems

Associate Editor, Physics of Living Systems

Who we are:

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

Position Summary:

The Associate Editor will decide on publishing the most exciting and consequential results in the Physics of Living Systems, conducting a thorough and high-quality peer-review process. For that, we seek a talented candidate with deep research experience in biological physics, biophysics, living matter, neuroscience at the postdoctoral level and outstanding communication skills. A successful candidate will work with the editorial team of PRX Life and Physical Review E, interacting with top leaders in the field. The Associate Editor will also be responsible for engaging and building connections with scientists from this highly multidisciplinary research community at the interface of physics and biology. Expertise in statistical physics and/or soft matter is a plus.

APS has a “remote first” concept that promotes equal treatment and equal access within the United States, independent of physical work location, with a majority of staff working primarily from remote work locations. APS values diversity and welcomes candidates from a variety of backgrounds. APS offers a dynamic work environment with an outstanding total compensation package, including salary, outstanding benefits, and excellent paid time off.

Responsibilities:

Editorial: 

• Evaluate the scientific content and impact of manuscripts in a critical and independent manner, managing all aspects of peer review.

  Decide to editorially reject or proceed with peer review, based on the journal's acceptance criteria and scope.

  Maintain impeccable ethical standards and fairness at all editorial stages.

  Actively participate in everyday journal initiatives, such as highlighting and attracting top content.

  Actively contribute to high-level editorial strategies and engage with Editorial Board members.

  Participate in editorial and cross-departmental projects to meet and support the goals of APS.

Outreach:

• Represent the journals and the APS as a whole at scientific conferences, give presentations, and organize conference sessions. Ability to travel internationally is a requirement.

  Interact with key researchers and groups at pertinent laboratories and institutions, or through social media.

  Actively engage and develop strong relationships and trust with a broad network of researchers from academia and industry.

Technical:

• Ensure that Physical Review standards for quality, general style, guidelines, and technical issues are maintained, by communicating with authors, internal support staff, and external vendors.

  Use tools to conduct, analyze, and enhance the peer-review process.

Education: 

• A PhD is required, in Physics, Neuroscience, Biology, Chemistry, or Engineering. At least one year of postdoctoral experience is required.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Postdoctoral experience. 
• Published in major journals within the scope of PRX Life and Physical Review E. Proven referee experience in the topical areas of PRX Life and Physical Review E.  Candidates with considerable editorial experience in handling manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and demonstrated impact on that role, may qualify for a senior position. Excellent knowledge of the scientific literature in Physics of Living Systems, existing research groups in the area of coverage, and acute awareness of current developments. Passion for learning and sharing research in the Physics of Living Systems. A strong sense of integrity. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills. Demonstrate excellent command of written English. Capable of being detail-oriented without losing sight of the big picture. The ability to make independent decisions and evaluations. The ability to apply journal policies and practices, and make sound editorial judgments. Knowledge of Web-based manuscript handling and databases as a plus. A strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to the job.

Travel:  

• This role involves occasional travel, approximately up to 10%, for meetings with APS staff, departmental gatherings, and interactions with colleagues in the Long Island, NY, Washington, DC and College Park, MD areas. Additionally, the position requires world-wide travel to attend conferences and events, and to interact with researchers at their institutions and universities.