The Journal of the American College of Surgeons (JACS) is seeking applications for appointment as Statistical Advisors. Statistical Advisors play an important role in ensuring that the research published in JACS meets the highest standards of methodological rigor. Working alongside the journal's Statistical Editors and editorial team, Advisors provide expert evaluation of study design, statistical methodology, and quantitative analyses for manuscripts submitted to one of the world's leading surgical journals.
This program expands JACS' statistical review capacity while creating a pathway for experienced quantitative scientists to become part of the journal's editorial community.
About the Program
JACS receives a large volume of clinically important research spanning all surgical specialties. Many manuscripts require dedicated methodological review to ensure that statistical analyses are appropriate, transparent, and accurately interpreted.
The Statistical Advisor Program was established to:
- Strengthen the quality and consistency of statistical peer review
- Improve editorial turnaround during periods of increased submission volume
- Broaden access to specialized quantitative expertise
- Develop future leaders in statistical and methodological peer review
Statistical Advisors complement the workload of the journal's existing Statistical Editors. Statistical Editors continue to oversee the statistical review process and evaluate the most complex methodological submissions, while Statistical Advisors provide additional expertise for routine methodological reviews and periods of high editorial demand.
Appointment Details
Successful applicants will be appointed by the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.
Appointments include:
- Renewable 1-year term
- Recognition on the JACS masthead
- Listing on the JACS website
- Formal editorial appointment suitable for academic promotion and tenure documentation
- Integration into the JACS editorial community
The inaugural panel is expected to include approximately 5–8 Statistical Advisors.
Responsibilities
Statistical Advisors serve as expert peer reviewers for manuscripts requiring quantitative assessment.
Reviews typically focus on:
- Study design
- Statistical methodology
- Analytical approach
- Interpretation of results
- Reporting standards
- Overall methodological rigor
Statistical Advisors function as independent peer reviewers within the existing editorial process. They provide expert recommendations to editors but do not make editorial decisions.
Expected Commitment
Appointments are designed to be manageable for active investigators and faculty.
Statistical Advisors should expect to:
- Complete approximately 1–2 statistical reviews per month
- Accept review invitations within a reasonable timeframe
- Submit thoughtful, constructive, and timely reviews
- Maintain confidentiality throughout the peer review process
- Declare potential conflicts of interest when appropriate
Review assignments are matched to each Advisor's methodological expertise and availability.
Who Should Apply?
Applications are welcomed from individuals with expertise in quantitative methods who are interested in advancing the quality of surgical research.
Competitive candidates should demonstrate:
- Training or expertise in biostatistics, epidemiology, quantitative methods, or clinical research methodology
- An active scholarly record with peer-reviewed publications involving quantitative research
- Experience in peer review or demonstrated expertise in critically evaluating statistical methods
- A commitment to providing timely, constructive, and educational reviews
- An interest in advancing surgical research and the mission of JACS
Preferred qualifications include:
- Experience collaborating with surgical investigators or reviewing surgical research
- Expertise in modern statistical methods such as:
- Causal inference
- Survival analysis
- Clinical trials
- Machine learning
- Analysis of large clinical or administrative databases
Benefits of Serving
Serving as a JACS Statistical Advisor offers the opportunity to:
- Contribute directly to improving the quality of published surgical research
- Receive formal editorial recognition from a leading international surgical journal
- Expand professional visibility within the surgical research community
- Gain insight into emerging surgical science before publication
- Develop experience in editorial peer review
- Build relationships with JACS editors and researchers
- Be considered for future Statistical Editor appointments as opportunities arise
Selection Process
Applicants should submit:
- A current curriculum vitae
- A brief statement describing:
- Methodological expertise
- Research interests
- Prior peer review experience (if applicable)
- Areas of statistical specialization
Applications will be reviewed by the JACS editorial leadership.
Final appointments will be made by the Editor-in-Chief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prior editorial experience required?
No. Prior peer review experience is preferred but not required. Applicants should be able to demonstrate expertise in quantitative methods and critical evaluation of statistical analyses.
How many manuscripts will I review?
Most Advisors will complete approximately 1 to 2 reviews per month, depending on expertise, availability, and submission volume.
Is this a paid position?
No. This is a voluntary editorial appointment that includes formal recognition on the JACS masthead and website.
Can this lead to future editorial roles?
Yes. The Statistical Advisor Program is intended, in part, to create a developmental pathway through which exceptional Advisors may be considered for future appointments as JACS Statistical Editors.
How to Apply
Applications are now being accepted.
Please submit:
-
- Current curriculum vitae
- Brief statement of methodological expertise and areas of interest
Application Deadline: August 7, 2026
Submit Applications to: jacsedit@facs.org
