Publication Ethics & Malpractice Statement

The International Journal of Molecular Oncology (IJMO) is committed to upholding the highest standards of publication ethics and academic integrity. The journal takes all reasonable steps to prevent publication malpractice and ensures that all stakeholders involved in the publication process adhere to ethical principles and professional standards. 

This statement outlines the ethical responsibilities of authors, editors, reviewers, and the publisher. 

Shape 

Ethical Framework 

IJMO follows internationally accepted ethical guidelines and best practices for scholarly publishing. The journal is dedicated to maintaining transparency, accountability, and trust in the scientific record. 

Shape 

Responsibilities of Authors 

Authors submitting manuscripts to IJMO must ensure that: 

  • The submitted work is original and has not been published or submitted elsewhere 

  • All data and results are accurately reported and honestly interpreted 

  • Proper acknowledgment of all sources and contributions is provided 

  • All listed authors meet accepted authorship criteria and approve the final manuscript 

  • Any conflicts of interest and sources of funding are fully disclosed 

Research Ethics 

  • Studies involving human participants must comply with ethical standards and include informed consent and ethics committee approval 

  • Animal studies must follow institutional and international guidelines for ethical animal research 

  • Ethical approval statements must be included in the manuscript 

Misconduct 

Plagiarism, data fabrication, data falsification, duplicate submission, and inappropriate authorship practices are strictly prohibited. The journal uses plagiarism detection tools to screen all submissions. 

Shape 

Responsibilities of Editors 

Editors of the International Journal of Molecular Oncology are responsible for: 

  • Making publication decisions based on scientific merit, originality, and relevance 

  • Ensuring a fair, unbiased, and timely peer review process 

  • Maintaining confidentiality of submitted manuscripts 

  • Managing conflicts of interest appropriately 

  • Investigating suspected ethical misconduct and taking necessary corrective actions 

Shape 

Responsibilities of Reviewers 

Reviewers are expected to: 

  • Conduct reviews objectively, constructively, and confidentially 

  • Declare any conflicts of interest 

  • Identify relevant prior work not cited by the authors 

  • Refrain from using unpublished material for personal benefit 

Shape 

Peer Review Integrity 

IJMO employs a double-blind peer review process to ensure impartial evaluation of manuscripts. Reviewer identities and editorial communications are treated as confidential throughout the review process. 

Shape 

Conflicts of Interest 

All authors, reviewers, and editors must disclose any financial, personal, or professional relationships that could influence the evaluation or interpretation of a manuscript. 

Shape 

Corrections, Retractions, and Expressions of Concern 

When errors or ethical issues are identified after publication: 

  • Corrections are issued for honest errors that do not invalidate the findings 

  • Retractions are issued for serious ethical breaches or unreliable data 

  • Expressions of concern may be published while investigations are ongoing 

All actions are taken transparently to maintain the integrity of the scholarly record. 

Shape 

Data Access and Reproducibility 

Authors may be asked to provide original data or supporting materials for editorial review. IJMO encourages data transparency and reproducibility to support reliable scientific research. 

Shape 

Handling of Complaints and Appeals 

The International Journal of Molecular Oncology takes allegations of misconduct seriously. Complaints and appeals are investigated objectively, confidentially, and in accordance with established ethical standards. 

Shape 

Commitment to Ethical Publishing 

The International Journal of Molecular Oncology is dedicated to ethical publishing practices and continuous improvement of editorial standards, ensuring the credibility and reliability of published research in molecular oncology and precision medicine.