The Geological Society of London (GSL) is looking for a new Editor-in-Chief for its highly-respected, peer-reviewed, international journal, the Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology (QJEGH) from January 2027. This is an exciting opportunity to shape this high-quality, industry-facing journal, which celebrates its 60th year of publication in 2027.
Role Overview
The Editor-in-Chief will be enthusiastic about the journal’s subject scope and come with a vision for how to implement the editorial values and aspirations for the journal. Ideally, applicants will have previous experience of a lead or senior editorial role. It is also desirable that the Editor-in-Chief will be active in the community and proactive in mobilising their own international network in support of the journal.
The Editor-in-Chief will be responsible for overseeing all editorial aspects of QJEGH, supported by an existing team of four Assistant Editors and an international Editorial Board of 50+ experts. In collaboration with GSL, the Editor-in-Chief will set the strategic direction for the journal. Principal areas for input will include:
- maintaining QJEGH as a leading publication of high-calibre research and content, including best practice and advances in current understanding across engineering geology and hydrogeology, with content from both academia and industry;
- promoting and advocating for QJEGH in related professional activities and collaboration with the journal’s marketing team;
- overseeing rolling recruitment and structuring of the Editorial Board, to ensure subject coverage and diversity, and providing clear leadership through effective communications and meetings;
- supporting the Editorial Board and thematic collection Guest Editors in their handling of peer review;
- consulting on research integrity issues related to the journal as they arise;
- ensuring representation and encouraging a culture of inclusivity in all aspects of journal activity through appropriate policy and practice;
- establishing a proactive approach to the commissioning of high calibre research from leading authors;
- demonstrating best practice in publishing, in accordance with GSL’s Code of Publishing Ethics and COPE guidelines.
The initial duration of appointment is 3 calendar years, with the option to extend for a further 3 years by mutual agreement. The level of time commitment for the role is estimated to be in the region of half a day per week, to be discussed and mutually agreed with the successful candidate. This is an honorary role, and no payment will be made. However, an annual travel stipend will be available to support attendance at conferences and events for journal advocacy and development work. The Editor-in-Chief will be entitled to free access to Lyell Collection Complete for each calendar year of service.
The QJEGH Editor-in-Chief will become a member of the GSL Publications and Information Committee, which meets three times a year. Committee meetings are held virtually and QJEGH Editor-in-Chief involvement is expected.
How to apply
QJEGH is a global journal, and applicants do not need to be based in the UK or be an existing GSL Fellow, but they should be willing to become a Fellow if successfully appointed to the role.
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, their CV, and their vision statement for the journal to qjegh@geolsoc.org.uk by midnight, UK time, on 9 July 2026.
Your vision statement for the journal should be no longer than two pages and should cover:
- where you believe the field is going, and the journal’s place within it;
- how you would work in partnership with the Editorial Board;
- how you would maintain and increase the quality of submissions;
- how you would work with authors.
For any questions about the position or for an informal discussion, please contact qjegh@geolsoc.org.uk.