Proposing a Special Issue
Lead a Thematic Collection on Emerging Big Data Topics
What is a Special Issue?
A Special Issue in Journal of Big Data Research is a curated collection of articles focused on a specific, timely topic within big data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data analytics. Special issues bring together leading experts to address emerging challenges, novel methodologies, or important application domains through a coordinated set of high-quality research contributions.
Special issues offer enhanced visibility for both guest editors and contributing authors through thematic coherence, focused marketing, and concentrated citation potential. They serve as valuable resources for researchers seeking comprehensive coverage of specific topics and often become highly cited references in their domains.
JBR welcomes special issue proposals from established researchers who can coordinate high-quality contributions and manage the guest editorial process professionally. Guest editors work closely with JBR's editorial board to ensure quality standards and timely publication.
Guest Editor Qualifications
Special issue guest editors should possess:
✓ Academic Credentials
PhD in relevant field (computer science, data science, statistics, AI) with established research record
✓ Publication Track Record
Strong publication history in peer-reviewed journals with h-index demonstrating research impact
✓ Topic Expertise
Recognized expertise in the proposed special issue topic with active research contributions
✓ Professional Network
Ability to attract high-quality submissions from established researchers in the field
✓ Editorial Experience
Prior experience as reviewer or editor preferred (though not mandatory for exceptional proposals)
✓ Time Commitment
Availability to manage editorial process for 6-12 months (proposal to publication)
Note: Each special issue typically has a single Guest Editor who is fully responsible for proposing the topic, coordinating submissions, managing peer review, and ensuring quality standards. Co-guest editors may be considered for particularly broad topics.
Special Issue Proposal Requirements
A complete special issue proposal should include:
1. Proposed Title and Scope
- Clear, descriptive special issue title
- Detailed scope statement (500-800 words)
- Justification for topic's timeliness and importance
- Explanation of gap in existing literature
- List of specific topics/themes to be covered
2. Guest Editor Information
- Full CV including publication list
- Current institutional affiliation and position
- ORCID ID and Google Scholar profile
- Contact information (email, phone)
- Brief statement of relevant expertise (200 words)
- Co-guest editor information (if applicable)
3. Potential Contributors
- List of 8-12 potential authors you plan to invite
- Brief description of each contributor's expertise
- Institutional affiliations showing geographic diversity
- Evidence of likely participation (optional but strengthens proposal)
4. Expected Outcomes
- Estimated number of submissions (minimum 8-10 recommended)
- Expected number of accepted articles (typically 6-8)
- Proposed timeline (submission deadline, review period, publication date)
- Impact statement: how this special issue will advance the field
5. Marketing and Dissemination Plan
- How you will promote the call for papers (conferences, mailing lists, social media)
- Relevant academic communities and professional networks
- Planned presentations or workshops to recruit submissions
Proposal Evaluation Criteria
JBR's editorial board evaluates special issue proposals based on:
Topic Relevance
Alignment with JBR's scope, timeliness, and potential to advance big data knowledge
Scientific Significance
Importance to field, potential impact, and contribution to solving real-world problems
Editor Qualifications
Guest editor's expertise, publication record, and ability to attract quality submissions
Quality Potential
Likelihood of attracting rigorous, high-impact research contributions
Uniqueness
Differentiation from recent special issues in JBR or competing journals
Feasibility
Realistic timeline, achievable submission targets, and guest editor availability
Guest Editor Responsibilities
If your proposal is accepted, you will be responsible for:
Before Submissions Open
- Finalize special issue title, scope, and topics with JBR editors
- Develop compelling call for papers text
- Set realistic submission and publication deadlines
- Promote call through academic networks, conferences, and mailing lists
- Personally invite leading researchers to contribute
During Submission Period
- Conduct initial screening of submissions for scope and quality
- Coordinate with JBR managing editors on manuscript flow
- Identify and invite qualified peer reviewers
- Ensure timely review process (avoid delays)
- Make editorial decisions based on reviewer recommendations
- Communicate with authors regarding revisions and decisions
After Acceptance
- Write editorial introduction for the special issue
- Coordinate with production team on publication schedule
- Promote published special issue to research community
- Track impact and citations
Quality Standards: Guest editors must uphold the same rigorous peer review standards as regular JBR submissions. Maintaining quality is more important than meeting submission quotas—it's better to publish 5 excellent articles than 10 mediocre ones.
How to Submit a Proposal
Follow these steps to propose a special issue:
Prepare Proposal
Compile all required materials: topic description, your CV, potential contributors list, timeline
Editorial Review
JBR editorial board reviews proposal within 2-3 weeks and provides decision or requests clarification
Launch & Manage
If approved, work with JBR team to launch call, coordinate submissions, and manage editorial process
Ready to Propose?
Submit Special Issue ProposalBenefits of Guest Editing
🎓 Academic Recognition
Guest editing demonstrates leadership in your field and is valued for tenure, promotion, and grant applications
🤝 Network Building
Connect with leading researchers in your area and build collaborative relationships through the editorial process
📚 Knowledge Synthesis
Gain comprehensive understanding of cutting-edge research in your topic area through editorial overview
✍️ Editorial Experience
Develop editorial skills and gain insight into peer review process—valuable for career development
📈 Citation Impact
Guest editorial and special issue collections often receive high citations as comprehensive references in the field
Have a Special Issue Idea?
We welcome proposals on emerging topics in big data research. Contact our editorial office to discuss your idea or submit a formal proposal.
Email: [email protected]
Subject line: "Special Issue Proposal - JBR: [Your Topic]"
