PLOS Launches Pilot Linking Peer Review Reports to Preprints
The Public Library of Science (PLOS) has announced a new pilot initiative aimed at enhancing transparency in scholarly communication by linking official peer review reports directly to preprints. Supported by the Gates Foundation, this program allows authors submitting to PLOS Global Public Health to opt-in to having their peer review comments posted alongside their preprints during formal evaluation. This approach integrates two key open science strategies: encouraging rapid preprint sharing and promoting transparent peer review. By making expert evaluations available earlier in the research lifecycle, particularly in global health, the initiative aims to increase trust and provide readers with immediate access to critical assessments. PLOS emphasizes that open peer review reduces bias and promotes accountability within the research ecosystem. This pilot builds on PLOS's longstanding commitment to open science, including its Published Peer Review History launched in 2019 and partnerships with Review Commons and MetaROR. The organization intends to study author motivations and reader engagement to shape future open science practices beyond traditional article formats.
Wire timeline
PLOS Launches Pilot Linking Peer Review Reports to Preprints
The Public Library of Science (PLOS) has announced a new pilot initiative aimed at enhancing transparency in scholarly communication by linking official peer review reports directly to preprints. Supported by the Gates Foundation, this program allows authors submitting to PLOS Global Public Health to opt-in to having their peer review comments posted alongside their preprints during formal evaluation. This approach integrates two key open science strategies: encouraging rapid preprint sharing and promoting transparent peer review. By making expert evaluations available earlier in the research lifecycle, particularly in global health, the initiative aims to increase trust and provide readers with immediate access to critical assessments. PLOS emphasizes that open peer review reduces bias and promotes accountability within the research ecosystem. This pilot builds on PLOS's longstanding commitment to open science, including its Published Peer Review History launched in 2019 and partnerships with Review Commons and MetaROR. The organization intends to study author motivations and reader engagement to shape future open science practices beyond traditional article formats.
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