Review process

E&G Quaternary Science Journal performs a single-blind peer review. However, it is up to the referees to reveal their identity. Once the manuscript has been registered (as a regular manuscript or part of a special issue), the author will receive a manuscript number from the online editorial support system, the Copernicus Office Editor, and will be asked to upload the manuscript files as described in the manuscript submission.

• The Copernicus Publications Editorial Support performs an incoming inspection of the submitted files and consults the author if necessary. A plagiarism check is applied and a report is made available to the editor and referees (if applicable).
• The Copernicus Office Editor assigns the manuscript to the chief editor, who then assigns it to the associate editor covering the relevant subject areas. She/he gets access to the entire manuscript.
• The associate editor nominates at least two independent referees. As soon as a referee has agreed, she/he receives the manuscript.
• Once at least two independent referee reports have been received, the Copernicus Office Editor contacts the associate editor to read these reports and to make a decision. In addition to acceptance/rejection, the associate editor can request minor revisions (further review by associate editor only), as well as major revisions (further review by referees and associate editor).
• The Copernicus Office Editor informs the author of the manuscript about the decision and provides a link to the reports of the associate editor and the referees.
• For the final decision, the associate editor either directly recommends to the chief editor the acceptance/rejection of the revised manuscript for publication or consults again referees. In case of acceptance or rejection, the chief editor is asked to verify the decision of the associate editor. She/he can either approve it or request additional corrections.
• The peer-review process of each manuscript is summarized in the manuscript records. Associate editors, authors, and referees have access to parts that concern them.