Scientific Peer Review Policy

Scientific Peer Review and Plagiarism Policy

Al-Furat Journal for Scientific Research and Studies adopts a Double-Blind Peer Review system to ensure the quality of published research and to uphold the highest standards of scientific integrity and objectivity.

  1. Peer Review Process
  • Initial Screening: All submitted manuscripts undergo a preliminary evaluation by the Editorial Board to ensure alignment with the journal’s scope and adherence to basic submission guidelines.
  • Blind Review: Manuscripts that pass the initial screening are forwarded to at least two specialized reviewers in the relevant field. The identities of both authors and reviewers remain strictly anonymous.
  • Conflict Resolution: In the event of conflicting reviewer reports, a third reviewer is appointed to provide a casting vote and reach a final decision.
  • Final Decision: The editorial decision is based primarily on the reviewers' recommendations, with the Editorial Board maintaining an administrative role to ensure compliance with journal policies.
  1. Evaluation Criteria

Reviewers assess submissions based on the following academic benchmarks:

  • Originality and Innovation: The novelty of the topic and its contribution to existing knowledge.
  • Methodological Rigor: The soundness and appropriateness of the research methodology.
  • Data Integrity: The accuracy of results and the depth of the analytical discussion.
  • Clarity and Language: The quality of scientific writing, structure, and linguistic precision.
  • Academic Impact: The potential of the research to advance its respective field.
  1. Review Timeline

The peer review process typically spans two to four weeks. This duration may vary depending on the complexity of the research and the availability of specialized subject-matter experts.

  1. Plagiarism Detection Policy
  • All manuscripts are subjected to rigorous plagiarism screening using specialized text-matching software.
  • Thresholds: The similarity index must not exceed the scientifically acceptable limits defined by the journal’s policy, excluding properly cited quotations and references.
  • Action: If the similarity percentage exceeds the permitted limit, the manuscript will either be returned to the author for necessary revisions or rejected at the discretion of the Editorial Board.
  1. Confidentiality and Independence
  • The journal is committed to maintaining absolute confidentiality throughout all stages of the review process.
  • Reviewers are strictly prohibited from using, sharing, or retaining any materials from the manuscripts under review.
  • Scientific decisions are made independently based on peer evaluations, free from any external influence.
  1. Conflict of Interest

All reviewers are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest regarding the authors or the research subject. In cases where a conflict is identified, the reviewer will be recused from the process to ensure impartiality.

  1. Ethical Compliance

The journal adheres to global publication ethics, including policies regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, as detailed in the independent policy page on the journal’s official website.

Note: These provisions constitute the approved academic standards for publication in Al-Furat University Journal. By submitting a manuscript, authors acknowledge that they have reviewed and agreed to comply with these regulations.