Reviewer Acceptance Policy

Journal of Information Technology, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence (JITCAI)

1. Purpose

The Journal of Information Technology, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence (JITCAI) maintains a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the quality, integrity, and academic value of published research. This Reviewer Acceptance Policy defines the eligibility criteria, responsibilities, and evaluation standards for individuals seeking to serve as peer reviewers.

2. Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for appointment as a peer reviewer, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

2.1 Academic & Professional Qualifications

Hold at least a Master’s degree in a relevant field (PhD strongly preferred).
Demonstrated expertise in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or closely related disciplines.

2.2 Research & Publication Experience

Have at least one peer-reviewed publication in a reputable journal or conference.
Publications must align with the journal’s scope.

2.3 Professional Affiliation

Current affiliation with an academic institution, research organization, or relevant industry.
Use of an institutional or professional email address is strongly preferred.

2.4 Research Identity

A valid ORCID iD is required.
Reviewer profile information must be complete and accurate.

3. Application & Screening Process

Reviewer requests are submitted through the journal system or via email.
The Editorial Board evaluates applications based on:
- Subject-matter relevance
- Publication history
- Academic credentials
- Professional affiliation
Meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance.
The Editor-in-Chief reserves the right to approve or decline applications at discretion.

4. Probationary Appointment

All newly accepted reviewers are appointed under a probationary status:

First review is evaluated for:
- Timeliness
- Depth and constructiveness
- Ethical compliance
Successful completion results in continued reviewer status.
Failure to meet expectations may result in removal without further notice.

5. Reviewer Responsibilities

Approved reviewers are expected to:

Complete reviews within 2–3 weeks of assignment.
Provide objective, constructive, and evidence-based feedback.
Maintain strict confidentiality of all manuscripts.
Declare any conflicts of interest immediately.
Refrain from using AI tools to generate reviews without disclosure and editorial approval.

6. Ethical Standards

Reviewers must adhere to international publication ethics, including but not limited to:

No review of manuscripts where a conflict of interest exists.
No use of unpublished material for personal research.
No attempts to influence editorial decisions for personal or institutional benefit.

Violations may result in immediate removal from the reviewer pool.

7. Performance Monitoring

Reviewer performance is continuously monitored. A reviewer may be removed if they:

Repeatedly miss deadlines without valid justification.
Submit low-quality or non-substantive reviews.
Fail to respond to review invitations.
Engage in unethical or unprofessional behavior.

8. Recognition & Acknowledgment

Active and reliable reviewers may receive:

Annual acknowledgment on the journal website.
Reviewer certificates upon request.
Consideration for editorial board roles based on long-term contribution and performance.

Reviewer service does not guarantee manuscript acceptance or preferential treatment.

9. Term & Renewal

Reviewer appointments are reviewed annually.
Continued service depends on performance, availability, and journal needs.
JITCAI reserves the right to modify or terminate reviewer appointments at any time.

10. Policy Updates

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect best practices in scholarly publishing. The most current version will always be available on the journal’s official website.

Approved by:
Editor-in-Chief, JITCAI
Dr. Ahmed Al Zaidy

Reviewer Acceptance Policy