277 Building trust in science: How editors and reviewers uphold scientific integrity.

Abstract Reliable science depends on trust. A transparent, rigorous peer-review process and publishing system are critical to maintaining that trust. The system encompasses scientists, authors, editors (including editors-in-chief, and associate or subject matter editors), reviewers, publishers, and readers, to name a few. While all members of the process are important, this presentation focuses on editors and reviewers. Editors and reviewers play essential roles in safeguarding the integrity of published research. Editors, who are typically active scientists themselves, set and uphold journal standards by carefully selecting qualified reviewers. These reviewers are tasked with providing both the editor and the authors with detailed, fair, and constructive feedback. Reviewers, in turn, act as independent evaluators who assess study design, methodology, and data interpretation to verify that conclusions are fully supported by the evidence provided in the manuscript. A major component of maintaining scientific credibility is the ethical framework that underlies scientific publishing. Editors and reviewers help enforce requirements such as conflict-of-interest disclosures, adherence to animal or human research regulations, and transparency in methods, funding, and author contributions. Equally essential is the commitment to reproducibility. By requiring thorough reporting of methodologies, encouraging data sharing, and valuing well-executed confirmation or “negative” studies alongside novel findings, editors and reviewers play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the scientific record. Their collective scrutiny is intended to deter unethical practices and ensure that published research upholds the highest standards of reliability. In journals owned by scholarly associations, these checks are further reinforced by a commitment to serving the scientific community rather than prioritizing profit. Most, if not all society-owned journals reinvest journal funds into educational initiatives, symposia, and conferences/meetings to support the science. They also, directly and indirectly educate and develop those that edit and review. Collectively, society journals and their societies support strong research and publication standards within their respective disciplines. In summary, the interplay between editorial oversight and comprehensive peer review strengthens credibility across all stages of publication. Editors and reviewers work together to refine manuscripts, ensure statistical and interpretive rigor, and uphold transparency in reporting. Their contributions enhance the quality of individual studies and sustain public trust in scientific progress. By maintaining rigorous standards and ethical oversight, they are an important part of the system that helps secure the foundation upon which future scientific innovations are built, thus reinforcing the integrity and reliability of scientific discovery.