Complaints and appeals procedures

Biological & Clinical Sciences Research Journal (BCSRJ) is committed to handling complaints, appeals and allegations of misconduct in a fair, transparent and timely manner. This policy summarises how authors, reviewers and readers can raise concerns and how those concerns will be addressed.

Appeals against editorial decisions

  • Right to appeal: Authors who believe that a rejection was based on a misunderstanding or was not in accordance with BCSRJ’s policies may appeal the decision. The appeal must provide a detailed, point‑by‑point response to the editor’s and reviewers’ comments and any new information or data relevant to the decision.

  • Submission of appeals: Appeals should be sent to the Editor‑in‑Chief (EIC) via the journal’s editorial office. The EIC will review the original decision, the peer‑review history and the author’s appeal. If necessary, the EIC may assign the manuscript to a new handling editor and independent reviewers for a fresh evaluation.

  • Outcome: The EIC will decide whether to uphold or overturn the initial decision. One appeal is permitted per submission, and the EIC’s decision on the appeal is final.

Complaints about processes or conduct

  • Making a complaint: Concerns related to editorial processes, publication policies or the behaviour of editors, reviewers or authors should be submitted in writing to the managing editor. If it is not appropriate to contact the handling editor (for example due to a conflict of interest), complainants may email the Editor‑in‑Chief or the journal’s general contact address.

  • Acknowledgement and investigation: BCSRJ will acknowledge receipt of a complaint promptly (within five working days) and will investigate in line with guidelines from the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). The investigation may involve reviewing submission history and correspondence and contacting involved parties. Complaints will be handled with fairness, impartiality and confidentiality.

  • Resolution and updates: The journal strives to resolve complaints quickly; however, some cases may require additional time if third parties or external institutions need to be consulted. Complainants will receive updates on the progress of their case at regular intervals (for example every two weeks) until a resolution is reached. The final decision will be communicated in writing.

Allegations of misconduct

  • Post‑publication issues: If concerns arise about published content (e.g., potential plagiarism, ethical breaches or data issues), the EIC will follow COPE guidance on retractions and corrections. Corrective actions such as corrections, expressions of concern or retractions may be issued as necessary.

  • Appealing corrective action: Authors may appeal post‑publication corrective actions if they believe new evidence affects the decision. Appeals will be considered by the journal’s ethics committee and, if needed, by external advisers. Decisions on retraction or correction appeals are final.

External referral

If a complainant remains dissatisfied after following the above procedures, they may refer the matter to an independent body such as COPE or to the institution funding or employing the authors.  BCSRJ will co‑operate with such investigations while maintaining confidentiality as appropriate.

Principles

BCSRJ handles all appeals and complaints under the principles of speed, fairness, confidentiality and clarity. We acknowledge and respond to concerns promptly, review them thoroughly and communicate outcomes transparently. This policy ensures that authors, reviewers and readers can trust the integrity of BCSRJ’s editorial processes.