Propose a Special Issue
Lead a focused collection advancing diagnostic pathology knowledge.
Shape the Future of Diagnostic Science
JCDP welcomes proposals for thematic special issues addressing timely topics in clinical and diagnostic pathology. Guest-edited collections provide focused platforms for comprehensive coverage of emerging diagnostic areas.
Topic Justification
Explain the significance and timeliness of your chosen diagnostic pathology topic for the global laboratory community.
Guest Editor CVs
Include credentials demonstrating expertise in the proposed specialty area with publication track records.
Provisional Contents
Outline anticipated articles with tentative authors showing potential contributor network.
Timeline
Proposed schedule from call for papers through publication, typically 9-12 months total.
The editorial board evaluates proposals based on topic timeliness and relevance to diagnostic pathology, guest editor qualifications and commitment, potential author pool quality, alignment with JCDP scope, and realistic feasibility of the proposed timeline. Strong proposals demonstrate awareness of the research landscape and identified manuscript sources.
Co-Editor Teams: Proposals with co-editor teams spanning different institutions or countries are encouraged. Diverse editorial perspectives strengthen manuscript recruitment and review quality. We particularly welcome proposals incorporating early-career pathologists as co-editors for mentorship opportunities.
- Promote the special issue and recruit quality submissions
- Coordinate peer review in consultation with JCDP editorial office
- Ensure timely processing of all manuscripts
- Write an introductory editorial for the collection
- Maintain quality standards consistent with regular JCDP submissions
JCDP provides promotional support for approved special issues, including website announcements, social media campaigns, and targeted outreach to pathology research communities. Guest editors are encouraged to leverage their professional networks to attract high-quality submissions.
Special issues typically span 9-12 months from proposal approval to final publication. Guest editors should plan for manuscript solicitation periods, submission deadlines, review cycles, and revision periods. Build buffer time for unexpected delays in author responses or reviewer availability.
All special issue manuscripts undergo the same rigorous peer review as regular JCDP submissions. Guest editors may not handle their own manuscripts or those from close collaborators. The JCDP editorial office maintains oversight to ensure consistent quality standards across all published content.
Proposals are reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief and editorial board. Applicants typically receive responses within 4-6 weeks with decisions or requests for additional information. Strong proposals demonstrate clear vision, feasible implementation plans, and identified potential contributors with established expertise in the proposed diagnostic area. Early responses to promising proposals may include suggestions for strengthening the submission before final editorial board approval and formal project initiation.
Submit Your Proposal
Lead a collection advancing diagnostic pathology knowledge.
Contact Editorial Office
