The quality and value of any academic journal rests on the quality of research submitted as well as the critiques of reviewers. The reviewer is the essential element of the process. One of the editor's primary responsibilities is to create and maintain a high-quality, productive group of reviewers.
Essential characteristics of quality reviewers include their subject-matter knowledge, professional judgment, constructiveness, an independent publication record, the ability to apply appropriate standards, the ability to write clearly—particularly when addressing complex issues—to both the submitting author(s) and the editor, and a willingness to work within the journal's guidelines.
The Journal’s Editor is responsible for assigning reviewers based on a number of factors including subject-matter expertise, the ability to provide reviews devoid of inappropriate bias, and the ability to help identify strengths and weakness of manuscripts with an eye toward developing both the submission and the contributing authors.
Reviewers are solicited through a number of methods including invitation, contact through special meetings or professional associations, contributing author recommendations, society membership, as a result of expertise in a relevant subject, or manuscript bibliographies.
APCJ welcomes and encourages qualified individuals to apply for Reviewer Status.