Appealing the Publication Decision
Lab Publishers is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and quality in our publishing process. We recognize that there may be instances where authors, reviewers, or readers may wish to raise concerns or appeal decisions related to the publication process. This Complaints and Appeals Procedure outlines the steps for addressing such matters.
1. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide a transparent, fair, and efficient process for handling complaints and appeals. We aim to ensure that all concerns are addressed promptly and appropriately, fostering an environment of trust and accountability.
2. Types of Complaints
Complaints may arise in various contexts, including but not limited to:
- Issues related to the peer review process (e.g., delays, perceived bias, or lack of transparency).
- Concerns regarding the integrity of published research (e.g., plagiarism, data fabrication, or ethical violations).
- Disputes over editorial decisions (e.g., rejections or corrections).
- General grievances related to the publication process.
3. Submitting a Complaint
To submit a complaint, the concerned party must follow these steps:
- Written Complaint: Complaints should be submitted in writing (via email or a dedicated online form) to the editorial office of the Journal. The complaint must include:
- A clear and detailed description of the issue.
- Relevant supporting documents or evidence.
- The names of any individuals involved, if applicable.
- Contact information for the complainant.
- Timeliness: Complaints should be submitted within three months of the occurrence of the issue. Late submissions may be considered at the discretion of the editorial team but are generally discouraged.
4. Acknowledgment and Review
Upon receipt of a complaint, the editorial office will:
- Acknowledge receipt of the complaint within five working days.
- Conduct an initial review to determine the validity and relevance of the complaint. This may involve consultation with the relevant editorial team members or external reviewers, as necessary.
5. Response to Complaints
The editorial office will aim to provide a comprehensive response to the complaint within 30 working days. The response will include:
- An overview of the findings from the initial review.
- Any actions taken or proposed in response to the complaint.
- An explanation of the decision made, if applicable.
If further investigation is required, the timeline may be extended, and the complainant will be informed of any delays.
6. Appeals Process
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the response to their complaint, they may appeal the decision by following these steps:
- Written Appeal: The appeal must be submitted in writing to the editorial office within 14 days of receiving the initial response. The appeal should include:
- A clear statement of the grounds for the appeal.
- Any additional evidence or information that supports the appeal.
- Review of Appeal: The editorial office will review the appeal and may involve an independent panel, if necessary, to assess the case. This process will ensure an objective evaluation of the appeal.
- Final Decision: The editorial office will communicate the final decision regarding the appeal within 30 working days of receiving the appeal. The decision will be considered final, and no further appeals will be accepted.
7. Confidentiality and Non-Retaliation
All complaints and appeals will be handled confidentially, and every effort will be made to protect the identity of the complainant. Lab Publishers is committed to ensuring that no individual will face retaliation for raising a concern or submitting a complaint in good faith.
8. Record Keeping
All complaints and appeals will be documented, and a summary of the cases will be maintained for internal review to identify trends and improve processes as needed.
By providing a clear and structured Complaints and Appeals Procedure, Lab Publishers aims to uphold the integrity of the scholarly publishing process and ensure that all concerns are addressed fairly and effectively. We encourage open communication and are committed to continuous improvement in our practices.
