Why I applied for The Journal of Physiology’s Editorial Board Fellowship
By Eleonora Grandi (University of California, Davis) Senior Editor at The Journal of Physiology
Eleonora (Ele) Grandi rose from Editorial Board Fellow to joining the team of Senior Editors at The journal of Physiology. In this blog, she shares her experience of the journal’s Editorial Board Fellowship scheme, and the knowledge and skills she gained from understanding journal priorities to reviewing manuscripts with a supportive community.
Shape how physiology is communicated
I first applied to the Journal of Physiology Editorial Board Fellowship because I wanted to gain better insight into the publication process. I had previously published in the journal and reviewed many articles, and deeply respected the rigor, breadth, and commitment to advancing physiology.
The Journal of Physiology was (and is) one of the journals I read most often, and therefore I was excited at the opportunities to contribute more directly to that mission, engage in the editorial process, learn from experienced editors, and participate in shaping how physiology is communicated.
How to edit and publish a journal
As a Fellow, I learned how editorial decisions are made, how reviewers are chosen, and how a journal tries to balance quality and promptness of the review process. Most importantly, I gained deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that sustains a world-class publication: the dedication of the editorial staff and of the Senior Editors, and their collective commitment to scientific integrity.
I learned to appreciate the importance of providing feedback on someone’s years of work and the responsibility of an editor in guiding the process. The experience as a Reviewing Editor helped me cultivate clarity and transparency, especially when communicating decisions and expectations for revision to authors.
Be part of the community
What I didn’t anticipate was how much I would value the community. From my first email interactions with the editorial office staff to the in-person editorial board meetings, I was impressed by the professionalism, warmth, and sense of shared purpose that characterises The Journal of Physiology community.
In addition to being productive, the meetings are genuinely collegial and full of lively discussion, humour, and support. Over the years, it has been deeply rewarding to watch The Journal of Physiology community grow more diverse and inclusive.
One of my proudest moments was joining the team of Senior Editors at the same time as seeing one of my former trainees become an Editorial Board Fellow. This full-circle moment captures the spirit of this program, which doesn’t just train editors, but also fosters a community of scientists that keeps physiology moving forward.
Join the Fellowship for mentoring and training
To anyone considering the Editorial Board Fellowship, my advice is to apply! This program will not only provide useful insight into the world of scientific publishing, but will also yield access to a network of amazing colleagues who share your passion for physiology. You just need to bring your curiosity, openness to learning and to engaging with ideas outside your immediate area.
The experience will enrich your scientific perspective and, perhaps most importantly, reaffirm that journals like The Journal of Physiology are communities that nurture and inspire the discipline itself.
Go behind-the-scenes to be the next rising star in physiology
It’s now your chance to go behind the curtain to learn how The Journal operates and gain insight into the peer review process under the guidance of a Senior Editor. Apply for the Editorial Board Fellowship (Applications open 15 January – 15 March 2026): https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/journal/14697793/features/editorial-board-fellowship
Read more testimonials from Editorial Board Fellows: https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/hub/journal/14697793/features/editorial-board-fellowship
