Ethical per review requires confidentiality, objectivity, and competence.
Confidentiality
As a reviewer, you cannot use or share the unpublished information you are reviewing in any way. It is not acceptable to:
- Discuss the information or review process with anyone who is not part of the review.
- Ask anyone else to conduct your review
- Use or share an idea before it becomes publicly available
- Retain a copy of the reviewed material
- Use AI to evaluate materials or write analysis
As a reviewee, it is also important to respect the confidentiality of the peer review processes. You must not contact any potential reviewers related to your submission.
Objectivity
Provide an honest, independent review that is free from bias or personal feelings.
Competence
Ensure you have the expertise required to evaluate the information and clearly express and justify all comments.
Best practices
- Thoroughly read and respond thoughtfully to the submission.
- Follow the criteria set by the entity requesting the review.
- Adhere to all security requirements, including accessing review materials safely.
- Fully disclose all potential conflicts of interest to the reviewing entity.
Resources
Peer Review (Office of Research Integrity)