To celebrate the 360th anniversary of the start of the Philosophical Transactions, we have invited Guest Editor Shun-Peng Zhu to tell us what publishing with the journal means to him.
As I settle down to contemplate my experience as a Guest Editor for Philosophical Transactions, the world's oldest continuously published scientific journal, I am overwhelmed with a sense of awe and profound gratitude. To lend my hand to a publication that has endured the ravages of time for 360 years is not merely an honour, but a shining testament to the timeless power of scientific curiosity and the unwavering quest for knowledge.
Publishing in Philosophical Transactions holds a very special place in my heart. It's not just the journal's prestige that matters, but the acknowledgment it grants to the rigorous peer review process and the excellence of the research it features. For me, it signifies that my work has withstood the scrutiny of fellow experts in the field, enhancing the credibility and validity of my research endeavours.
The theme issue I had the honour of editing focused on Physics-informed machine learning and its applications in structural integrity. The response from the scientific community has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. It has not only ignited intriguing discussions and collaborations but also provided a stage for early-career researchers to present their innovative ideas. Personally, witnessing my theme issue come to fruition and its impact on the field has been incredibly gratifying and has given my career a significant boost.
The guest editing process was both challenging and rewarding. It demanded meticulous planning, seamless coordination with authors, and a profound understanding of the scientific content. However, what I cherished most was the opportunity to engage with a diverse array of researchers, learn from their unique perspectives, and contribute to the progression of knowledge in my field.
When choosing a journal for publication, I consider several factors. Chief among them is the journal's reputation, which indicate its ability to attract high-calibre submissions and disseminate groundbreaking research. Additionally, I value a journal's dedication to diversity, inclusivity, and ethical publishing practices. Philosophical Transactions excels in all these aspects, making it an obvious choice for me.
Looking ahead, I believe the future of journal publishing lies in embracing technological advancements and remaining adaptable to the evolving needs of the scientific community. This involves leveraging digital platforms to enhance accessibility, promoting open science practices, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Philosophical Transactions has already made significant progress in these areas, and I am thrilled to see how it will continue to evolve in the coming years.
In conclusion, serving as a Guest Editor for Philosophical Transactions has been an enriching experience that has deepened my admiration for the scientific endeavour and the role journals play in advancing it. I am grateful for this opportunity and eager to contribute to more such initiatives in the future.
Visit our anniversary page for more content celebrating 360 years of publishing.
