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Transportation Research Record
Journal of the Transportation Research Board
is recruiting new editors!

For more than 50 years, the Transportation Research Record (TRR) has been internationally recognized as one of the preeminent peer-reviewed journals for transportation research papers from authors in the United States and from around the world. One of the most cited transportation journals, the TRR offers unparalleled depth and breadth in the coverage of transportation topics from both academic and practitioner perspectives.

We are looking to expand our Editorial Board through the appointment of new Handling Editors. This vitally important volunteer role ensures a thorough peer review process and recommends what is published, therefore helping to shape the body of research that will inform both practice and research.

What does a TRR Handling Editor do?
HEs are assigned papers based on expertise. They recommend whether papers meet the criteria for desk rejection or should undergo peer review. They ensure a high quality, thorough peer review process by identifying and assigning appropriate peer reviewers and using those reviews, in addition to their own expertise and judgment, to recommend whether papers should be revised, accepted, or rejected. Handling Editors (HEs) are part of the Editorial Board, which is made up of the Editor-in-Chief, Senior Associate Editors, Associate Editors, and Statistical Editors. Professional staff at TRB manage operations and provide expertise and support all aspects of the journal.

What do we expect from Handling Editors?
HEs are expected to uphold ethical standards and confidentiality throughout the editorial process. TRR requires HEs to complete training on ethics and journal procedures, in addition to attending at least two meetings per year, either at the Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting or virtually. They are expected to handle at least six papers per year and meet deadlines at each step of the paper review process.

What are the qualifications?

  • Experience as an author of peer-reviewed publications (journal articles, technical reports, etc.).
  • Positive standing in the transportation research or practice community. This may be demonstrated through awards, grants, citations, management or leadership roles, or other relevant roles and experience.
  • Experience as an author of peer-reviewed publications (journals, tech reports, etc.).
  • A graduate degree in a relevant field.
  • Deep knowledge of one or more subfields in transportation.
  • Strong professional network to solicit and manage reviewers.
  • Extensive experience as a reviewer for multiple journals, including TRR. Timeliness as a TRR reviewer.
  • An ethical and unbiased approach to research and publication.
  • Ability to evaluate manuscripts and reviews critically and provide constructive guidance to authors.
  • Ability to correspond effectively with authors, reviewers, and other editors.
  • Willingness to dedicate the necessary time and effort to the role. Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple tasks in a timely manner.

What areas of expertise are needed?
The scope of TRR is broad and we welcome qualified applicants with expertise in all relevant fields. There are some areas where we currently have larger gaps in editorial coverage including:

  • Advanced methods related to artificial intelligence, machine learning, etc.
  • Automated vehicles
  • Aviation, including airport terminals, ground access, economics and forecasting
  • Bridges and structures
  • Environmental analysis, including emissions and noise
  • Freight and logistics, including economics, regulation, and international trade
  • Human factors of infrastructure design and vehicles
  • Marine transportation
  • Pavements and materials
  • Public transit, including quality of service, marketing, fare policy, bus and rail systems, and safety and security
  • Rail, including infrastructure design and maintenance and railroad operating technologies
  • Roadway design
  • Sustainability
  • Traffic flow theory and characteristics
  • Transportation network modeling
  • Travel behavior

What is the process to apply?
To apply, please complete the online HE application form. Your application will be screened by the Editor-in-Chief and may be reviewed by Senior Associate Editors or Associate Editors in your area(s) of expertise. We plan to make appointments on a rolling basis starting in late November, with training opportunities starting in December.

Questions?
Email Jennifer Dill, Ph.D., Editor-in-Chief