Welcome to the first installment of our exciting three-part Q&A series, where we introduce the bright minds behind our Junior Editorial Board at Reviews in Aquaculture. In this series, you'll get an inside look at the talented individuals who are helping to shape our content and bring fresh perspectives to our editorial team. 

In today's feature, we sit down with Dr. Guillermo Bardera, Aquaculture Technical Officer, Moredun Scientific, Penicuik, Scotland, a passionate and dedicated Junior Editorial Board member of the journal.  Through this Q&A, you'll learn about Dr. Guillermo Bardera’s background, their path to joining the board, and their vision for the future of our publication. Stay tuned for parts two and three, where we'll continue to spotlight more of our remarkable Junior Editorial Board members. 

Can you please tell us a little about yourself, your role and area of expertise/study/publications?

I am a marine biologist, born in Madrid, Spain (ironically, with no sea in sight!), and I hold a PhD in Aquaculture from the University of the West of Scotland. My expertise lies in aquaculture nutrition and applied behavior, particularly in using tracking technologies to assess feeding responses to novel feed additives. I have published several review papers in Reviews in Aquaculture, contributing to the advancement of our understanding on this field. 

Throughout my career, I have maintained a strong connection with the aquaculture industry. Currently, I serve as Study Director at Moredun Scientific, a contract research organization specializing in nutritional and animal health studies in aquaculture. Looking ahead, I am excited to embark on a new chapter as I prepare to assume the role of Reasearch & Development Project Manager at Adisseo. Adisseo stands as a global leader renowned for its expertise in developing innovative feed additives that optimize animal nutrition and health. 

What is an Early Career Researcher Board or Junior Editor Board? 

An Early Career Researcher or Junior Editor Board consists of young scientists, scholars, or professionals who are in the early stages of their academic or research careers. These boards are typically part of academic journals, research organizations or institutions. They play a crucial role in bridging the gap between emerging researchers and established professionals within the academic and research communities.  

Can you please tell us a little about your journal and its aims and scope?

Reviews in Aquaculture is dedicated to advancing the field of aquaculture by providing in-depth reviews on techniques, policies and developments. Our journal publishes articles that explore a wide array of topics essentials to the industry. We explore global, regional, and national production trends, alongside technological innovations and environmental interactions. Our focus extends to the cultivation of both native and introduced species, efficient resource utilization, and advancements in propagation techniques. We also delve into feeding practices, genetic applications, health management, policy developments, product quality assurance, and the socio-economic impacts of aquaculture. 

Each article published in the journal undergoes rigorous peer review, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of scientific integrity and contributes significantly to advancing the science and practice of aquaculture. 

What is the mission of the Junior Editor Board for the journal Reviews in Aquaculture?

The Junior Editor Board serves various purposes in Reviews in Aquaculture. These board members provide valuable insights and advice on issues relevant to early career researchers, advocating for policies and initiatives that support their professional development. They participate in the peer review process, contributing their expertise to evaluate and improve the quality of submitted research papers. Additionally, the Junior Editor Board are expected to connect with peers and senior researchers, fostering collaboration and networking opportunities that are important for both the journal and personal career advancement. 

How did you become a part of the Junior Editor Board for Reviews in Aquaculture? 

After completing my PhD in 2020, I discovered that Reviews in Aquaculture was offering positions on the Junior Editor Board. Recognizing the potential benefits, I contacted the Editors-in-Chief to express my interest, highlighting my experience and enthusiasm for the role. I saw this opportunity as a valuable step to advance my professional career, gain hands-on experience with a top scientific journal, and enhance my connections within the aquaculture community. 

Joining the Junior Editor Board at Reviews in Aquaculture has not only allowed me to contribute to the field by participating in the peer review process but has also provided me with a platform to collaborate with leading experts. This role has been instrumental in broadening my perspective on current research trends and challenges, and has strengthened my ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry. It has been an enriching experience that has solidified my commitment to contributing to the advancement of aquaculture science. 

What kind of tasks do you do as a member of the board? 

As a member of the board, my responsibilities include representing and promoting the journal within my network and at events. I maintain a proactive approach by diligently reviewing manuscripts and providing feedback directly to the Editors-in-Chief. I actively participate in editorial board meeting, where we analyze the current status of the journal and collaborate on innovative ideas and strategies to enhance its quality in the future.  

Why do you think inclusion and engagement with journal boards is important for early career researchers (ECRs)? 

Inclusion and engagement with journal boards are vital for ECRs as they provide relevant opportunities for professional development, visibility, and recognition within the academic community. Serving on a journal board exposes ECRs to scholarly publishing processes, peer review practices, and editorial decision-making, preparing them for future leadership roles. It enhances their visibility, establishes their expertise, and fosters connections with established scholars and researchers, facilitating collaboration and networking. Moreover, inclusion on journal boards allows ECRs to advocate for early career researcher interests and ensures their representation in academic publishing, promoting a supportive environment for their professional growth and contributions to their academic disciplines. 

Question: How does a journal benefit from having early career researcher board members?

Having early career researcher board members benefits a journal in several ways. ECRs bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to editorial policies and article selection, leveraging their recent training and exposure to cutting-edge research methods. Their expertise in emerging or niche areas expands the journal's coverage and attracts submissions from diverse fields. ECRs also enhance the journal's outreach efforts through their extensive networks, promoting calls for papers and broadening the pool of potential authors. Their active participation as reviewers maintains a robust reviewer pool, particularly in specialized areas. Ultimately, ECR board members serve as a bridge between established researchers and the next generation, ensuring the journal remains relevant and responsive to evolving research trends and interests. 

Question: What would be your advice for an early career researcher looking to get involved in a journal and its editorial board? 

Getting involved in a journal and its editorial board is a significant milestone for early career researchers. Active participation in reviewing provides invaluable insights into the latest research trends and methodologies within your field. This involvement not only keeps you updated but also enhances your ability to publish high-quality research in reputable journals, establishing your expertise.  

Engagement with the editorial board offers strategic networking opportunities at conferences and workshops, strengthening your visibility within the academic community. Additionally, contributing to collaborative projects such as writing editorials or organizing special issues allows you to actively shape discussions and contribute meaningfully to your field.  

Please visit our website to learn more Reviews in Aquaculture and the Junior Editor Board.