Author Appeals Policy

Author Appeals Policy

AIJNES provides a structured and transparent appeals process for authors in natural and environmental sciences. The process safeguards fairness while ensuring timely and rigorous evaluation of scientific research.

1. Valid Grounds for Appeal

Authors may appeal if:

  • Misinterpretation of experimental design, data, or methodology affected the decision

  • Reviewer feedback contained errors or misjudgments influencing the outcome

  • Evidence exists of reviewer/editorial bias, conflict of interest, or procedural errors

❗ Appeals solely due to disagreement with reviewers’ opinions are rarely considered.

2. Submitting an Appeal

Timeframe: Submit within 20 calendar days of decision notification. Late appeals are exceptional.

Submission Format: Submit to Editor-in-Chief 

Include:

  • Detailed justification for appeal

  • References to reviewer/editorial comments

  • Supporting evidence (data corrections, clarifications)

  • Optional revised manuscript with point-by-point response to reviewers

3. Appeal Review Process

Initial Assessment: Editor-in-Chief examines the appeal, original manuscript, and reviewer reports. May consult the handling editor or additional board members.

Further Evaluation: Options include:

  • Reconsulting original reviewers

  • Inviting independent reviewers with no prior involvement

  • Consulting neutral board or ethics experts

Final Decision: Possible outcomes:

  • Uphold original decision

  • Invite revision and resubmission

  • Accept manuscript (with or without revisions)

Written notification provided.

4. Appeal Limitations

  • Only one appeal per manuscript

  • Submission does not guarantee a change in outcome

  • Frivolous, repetitive, or aggressive appeals will be rejected

5. Ethical Considerations

Ethical concerns raised in appeals are referred to AIJNES Ethics Committee, potentially leading to editor reassignment or COPE-compliant investigations.

6. Communication and Timeline

  • Acknowledgment: Within 5 business days

  • Resolution: Typically 4–8 weeks

AIJNES ensures fairness, transparency, and integrity in scientific publication.