Peer Review Process

All manuscripts submitted to MBJ undergo rigorous double-blind peer review, in which the identities of both authors and reviewers are kept confidential.

The review process comprises the following stages:

• Initial editorial screening – the Editor-in-Chief or a Section Editor checks the manuscript for scope, completeness, formatting and originality (including a similarity check).
• Assignment of reviewers – suitable manuscripts are sent to at least two independent expert reviewers.
• Review and recommendation – reviewers assess the manuscript and recommend acceptance, revision or rejection.
• Editorial decision – based on the reviews, the editor communicates a decision to the corresponding author.
• Revision and final decision – revised manuscripts may be returned to the reviewers before a final decision is reached.

The journal aims to provide a first decision within six to eight weeks of submission. Final editorial decisions rest with the Editor-in-Chief.