Becoming a reviewer

Getting involved in the peer review process can be a highly rewarding experience that can also improve your own research and help to further your career. Learn more about peer review with our helpful infographic.

Who can become a reviewer?

In short, anyone with expertise in the article's research field can be a reviewer – no matter your career stage. Editors may request assessments of specific aspects, even if the overall topic isn't your specialty. You need enough knowledge to evaluate the manuscript and provide constructive feedback.

Become a reviewer

There are many ways to become a peer reviewer for a journal, including:

  • Expressing interest: Reach out to journal editors to inquire about becoming a reviewer. Include an up-to-date CV listing your research areas of expertise.
  • Recommendation by a peer: Ask a colleague who already reviews for a journal to recommend you.
  • Networking: Connect with editors and other subject experts at academic conferences and workshops.
  • Joining professional associations: Membership in relevant organizations can provide opportunities for reviewing and networking.
  • Working for senior researchers: Senior researchers may delegate peer review duties to you.
  • Formal peer review mentorship: Some journals provide formal programs providing mentorship from experienced peer reviewers or facilitate collaborative peer review, where multiple reviewers submit a unified report.

Building confidence

If you're new to peer review, don’t worry! Confidence grows with experience.

Seek guidance from experienced colleagues and use resources to learn how to evaluate manuscripts and structure feedback. Finding a mentor and familiarizing yourself with the peer review process will help build your confidence. You can also try our free course, “A Practical Guide to Peer Review for Early Career Researchers,” to start.

Journal editors are often looking to expand their reviewer pool, so there’s demand for your expertise. Keep your Wiley reviewer account and ORCID profile updated with your research areas, peer review activity, publications, grants, positions, and awards to ensure you’re matched with the right papers.