Associate Editor, PRL

APS•New York, NY

4d•Remote

About The Position

The American Physical Society (APS) is a nonprofit membership organization that advances physics by fostering an inclusive, global community dedicated to science and society. Physical Review Letters (PRL), APS’s flagship publication, publishes significant results across physics. The Associate Editor handles all stages of peer review for a suite of manuscripts and makes publication decisions. The role is suited to a dynamic, personable scientist with a strong background in astrophysics, particle physics, or nuclear physics and a broad outlook across physics. Editorial experience is not required; APS provides training. Candidates with substantial manuscript-handling experience and demonstrated impact may qualify for a senior position. Editors stay connected to the physics community and current research by attending meetings and visiting research institutions. They also participate in editorial initiatives and cross-departmental APS projects. The position is full-time and does not include visa sponsorship. APS follows a remote-first model, allowing work from locations within the United States. Work hours are flexible, with expected responsiveness during core Eastern Time workday hours. Occasional travel, approximately up to 10%, is required for APS meetings and gatherings, in addition to worldwide travel for conferences, events, and researcher visits. The hiring range is $83,041–$113,143 per year, with a target starting range of $83,041–$92,382 per year. APS offers a broad benefits package and does not provide relocation assistance.

Requirements

PhD and postdoctoral experience in astrophysics, particle physics, or nuclear physics.
At least one year of postdoctoral experience.
Excellent knowledge of science and literature in the relevant field.
Familiarity with research groups in the relevant field.
Familiarity with the peer-review process as an author and referee.
Strong sense of integrity.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to make prompt, independent evaluations and decisions.
Ability to manage multiple priorities.
Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
Excellent attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Considerable editorial experience handling manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, with demonstrated impact, may qualify candidates for a senior position.

Responsibilities

Manage all aspects of peer review for a suite of manuscripts, including determining whether review is warranted, selecting referees, evaluating responses, and deciding whether to publish.
Maintain close contact with PRL editors and editors of other journals in the Physical Review portfolio.
Help select and briefly summarize papers for highlighting.
Keep up with current and emerging physics research and communicate relevant information to editors across the portfolio.
Support post-acceptance manuscript processes as needed, including obtaining editorial summaries and images and resolving production issues.
Perform editorial checks to ensure the quality and timeliness of published papers.
Maintain high ethical standards and fairness throughout editorial work, ensuring decisions align with editorial policy and practice.
Develop mastery of the peer-review management system.
Represent the journals and APS at scientific conferences.
Build strong relationships and trust with a broad network of researchers.
Contribute to journal projects and strategy, including content commissioning, social media, outreach events, and data analytics.
Contribute to making the journals diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

Benefits

Flexible schedules and ability to work remotely.
8% employer-paid retirement contribution.
Employer-paid investment advisement services.
Medical coverage with PPO or HDHP options.
Employer contribution to an HSA, subject to medical plan enrollment.
Employer-paid Lifestyle Spending benefit up to $1,500.
Employer-paid vision coverage for employees and dependents.
Employer-paid basic life and accident insurance.
Supplemental life and accident insurance, including spouse and dependent child coverage.
Employer-paid disability insurance.
Voluntary accident and critical illness insurance.
Healthcare, commuter, and dependent-care flexible spending accounts.
15 days of annual vacation.
17 paid office closures, including a one-week closure at the end of December.
4 personal leave days annually.
1 volunteer leave day annually.
10 sick leave days annually.
Bereavement and compassion leave of 2–15 days, based on loss.
12 weeks of employer-paid family leave.
College tuition reimbursement plan.
Job-related seminars and continuing education.
Professional certification and recertification training.
Professional development and access to LinkedIn Learning courses.
Employee Assistance Program.
Live and on-demand mindfulness meditation classes.