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I wrote my last blog post nine months ago, and a lot has changed since then! I completed my peer review training as a Publishing Editor, and then decided to apply for the position of Development Editor. 

Whilst working as a Publishing Editor I became interested in knowing more about publishing strategy to improve journal quality, grow readership and increase market share compared to our competitors. I began my role as a Development Editor for five RSC journals (Analyst, Analytical Methods, JAAS, Integrative Biology and Lab on a Chip) in September and have enjoyed learning about a completely different side of publishing. My responsibilities include commissioning successful and influential authors to submit quality content to the journals, promotion of the journals to potential new and existing authors, and analysis of statistics and trends to assess the success of each journal against its competitors.

I am really enjoying my current role as it offers the opportunity to think creatively and, coming from a research background, any opportunity to put my analytical skills to good use is a bonus! The main challenge so far has been to divide and manage my time effectively to meet the needs of each journal. It has helped that the journals that I work on are relevant to my research background which has been an advantage in familiarising myself with the requirements of each journal.

I have just completed my first year at the RSC and I think I have learned valuable experience in scientific publishing during this time. I continue to look for other opportunities to get involved.

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Sarah is working as a Development Editor in the Royal Society of Chemistry's Publishing Department. To see if there are any current vacancies in Publishing click here.