NABS+ Meet the Editors Event for ECRs

Date: Tuesday 13 October 2026
Timings: 10:00 to 17:00 (lunch & refreshments provided)
Location: Digital Security Hub (DiSH), Manchester, UK
Cost: The event is free to attend.

About the Event

Publishing in journals is an essential component of academic research communication and reputation building. It supports career advancement by building global visibility, establishing credibility and expertise, and acts as a springboard for attracting future collaboration and networking opportunities. But for ECRs especially, it can sometimes be hard to figure out the best way to approach the journal submission, review and publication process, get insights on what editors are really looking for, and unlock guidance and strategies on how best to maximise chances of publication.

This workshop demystifies the publishing process, offers helpful tips and guidance for success, and gives ECRs the chance to meet and learn from experienced journal editors at a number of diverse, prestigious journals in fields relating to behavioural or social sciences in security and defence contexts.

More still to come, but we already have confirmed support from a fantastic initial line up of senior academics in editorial roles:

Dr Sarah Charman, Portsmouth University. Editor-in-Chief: International Journal of Law, Crime and Justice

Dr Gordon Clubb, Leeds University. Editorial Board member: 1). Studies in Conflict & Terrorism; 2). Perspectives on Terrorism

Professor Rachel Monaghan, Coventry University. Editor-in-Chief: Behavioural Sciences of Terrorism and Political Aggression

The programme is highly interactive, including engaging informational sessions alongside opportunities for ECRs to pitch their own work to editors for constructive ‘first impression’ feedback and guidance from journal editors.

Aims

To increase understanding about the distinctive editorial vision, focus, publication expectations and review processes for some of the key journals of relevance to ECRs in the NABS+ aligned fields of research

To demystify the journal publications acceptance and editorial process, and meet and build relatability with ‘The Editorial Board’ as real people

To give ECRs constructive, useful guidance and insights on how to increase their chances of publishing with certain journals

To shed light on recognising/managing some of the big publishing pitfalls facing ECRs looking to publish (e.g., the peer review process, inappropriate use of AI, handling rejection, the importance of the cover letter and responses to the review process, unscrupulous journals).

Accessibility and Funding

Limited funds are available to cover travel expenses if an institution or organisation cannot cover these costs. Priority is given to ECRs*.

We are committed to making our events accessible to all. If caring responsibilities or accessibility requirements are a barrier to participation, please visit our website for more information about our Access Fund, which offers financial assistance to help remove such barriers.

*NABS+ considers ECR status to be self-defined rather than defined by years post-PhD or job title.

Register your Interest

Places are limited, so register early to avoid disappointment. We’ll be in touch via email to confirm your place and share finalised schedule details.

Writing Retreat

Note: there is a follow on facilitated in-person Writing Retreat event planned for Wednesday 14 October, also in Manchester. Limited funds are available to cover travel expenses and accommodation if an institution or organisation cannot cover these costs. Places on this in-person Writing Retreat event will be allocated to ECRs who attend the Meet the Editors event on 13 October and have an active draft publication in development. Further details available via the sign up link.