Insights into ACR Open Rheumatology

Dr. Perl: I love science, I’m a curious person, and I am easily excited when reading something that is not published yet. The transition into this position has been straightforward, actually. Although I have officially been the editor in chief since Jan. 1, 2024, I began receiving new submissions to the journal the previous fall and was able to talk to Patty Katz and Ed Yelin, who co-founded the journal and were ending their terms as its co-editors in chief. [Author’s note: Patricia Katz, PhD, is professor emerita of medicine and health policy, and Edward H. Yelin, PhD, is the Edward A. Dickson Emeritus Professor of Medicine, both at the University of California, San Francisco.] Patty was especially helpful in guiding me through the mechanics of managing papers online. She graciously agreed to stay on as associate editor.

In addition, Adam Mlodzinski, the managing editor assigned by the publisher Wiley, was very good in assisting with the journal during the transition and remains a valued part of the editorial team. In fact, the ACR publications people at all levels are really good. They know what they are doing, are full of enthusiasm and are just a very good team to work with. I’m not just saying that; it’s honestly true. So really, the transition into the role of editor in chief has been an easy one.

I am looking forward to my next four years as editor in chief and watching ACROR continue to evolve, increase its impact and provide good quality, peer-reviewed and open access articles to our ACR members and readers across the world.

Leslie Mertz, PhD, is a freelance science journalist based in northern Michigan.