New Leadership on the Horizon: AGU Publications Welcomes Fresh Editorial Talent

Editors’ Vox is a vibrant blog that brings the exciting developments from AGU’s Publications Department into the spotlight. Today, we turn our attention to a significant transition set to take place in 2027: the introduction of six new Editors-in-Chief (EiCs). These appointments not only signify a change in leadership but also promise to continue the legacy of excellence established by their predecessors.

Honoring the Outgoing Editors-in-Chief

Transitioning leadership is never easy, and it’s essential to recognize the contributions of those who have set the course for the journals. AGU Publications is grateful to the outgoing EiCs for their hard work and dedication during their terms.

Key Figures Stepping Down:

• AGU Books: Kate Lajtha, from Oregon State University, USA, has served as EiC from 2020 to 2026, enhancing the breadth and outreach of the AGU’s publishing efforts.
• Community Science and the Community Science Exchange: Julia K. Parrish of the University of Washington has played a vital role from 2022 to 2026, promoting collaborative research and community engagement.
• Journal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems (JAMES): Stephen Griffies of Sorbonne Université/CNRS, France, has led the journal from 2021 to 2026, significantly impacting the modeling sector in Earth science.
• JGR: Biogeosciences: Marguerite A. Xenopoulos from Trent University, Canada, has been influential in this publication since 2021, driving forward critical research in biogeoscience.
• JGR: Oceans: Lisa M. Beal at the University of Miami has served from 2021 to 2026, contributing significantly to our understanding of oceanic processes.
• Water Resources Research: Georgia Destouni from Stockholm University has held the EiC position since 2021, advocating for sustainable water resource management.

These leaders have laid a robust foundation for their journals, enriching the body of Earth and space science knowledge.

A Warm Welcome to the Successors

As these esteemed leaders step down, AGU Publications is excited to unveil the new EiCs who will usher in fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. The transition promises to invigorate AGU’s publishing landscape with their unique expertise and dedication.

Meet the New Editors-in-Chief:

1. Jeffrey Karson – Transitioning into leadership for AGU Books, he brings vast experience coupled with a commitment to educational outreach and resource accessibility.
   

2. Kathryn Semmens – Taking over Community Science and the Community Science Exchange, she is expected to foster even closer ties between science and communities.
   

3. Steven Fletcher – The new EiC for JAMES, he aims to challenge existing modeling techniques and promote groundbreaking methodologies in Earth systems science.
   

4. Ankur Desai – Stepping in as EiC for JGR: Biogeosciences, he has a strong focus on integrating ecological knowledge and biogeochemistry.
   

5. Arvind Singh – As the new leader for JGR: Oceans, he is poised to explore innovative topics in oceanic research.
   

6. Alberto Guadagnini – Taking the reins at Water Resources Research, he is expected to expand the scope of research surrounding water sustainability and resource management.
   

These new leaders are not just representatives of their respective journals; they are passionate advocates for scientific collaboration and innovation.

The Search Process: Commitment to Diversity and Balance

The appointment of new EiCs is not a haphazard process. AGU Publications ensures these leadership transitions are conducted with meticulous care. The Editor-in-Chief searches begin with an open call and are managed by dedicated, journal-specific Search Committees.

These committees, composed of diverse members, play a crucial role in evaluating candidates. Their recommendations are forwarded to the Publications Committee, which consists of leaders who oversee this selection process—ensuring that diversity and inclusivity are at the heart of decision-making. The final recommendations are then subjected to a reputation review performed by esteemed members, guaranteeing a strong, representative leadership for the future.

Looking Ahead

As we transition into 2027, the role these new Editors-in-Chief will play is of paramount importance in shaping the direction and impact of AGU Publications. Their leadership will help to inspire a new generation of research, ensuring that the academic community continues pushing the boundaries of knowledge in earth and space science.

The future of AGU Publications looks promising, with a commitment to innovation and inclusivity driving forward a diverse array of scientific disciplines. The collaborative spirit fostered by both outgoing and incoming leadership will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the advancement of global science.