2026 Journal of Pain Editor-in-Chief Applications

The United States Association for the Study of Pain (USASP) is seeking qualified candidates to apply for the position of Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Pain, the official journal of USASP. The Journal of Pain publishes original articles, reviews, and focus articles related to all aspects of pain, including basic, translational, and clinical research, epidemiology, education, and health policy. The journal publishes 12 issues per year utilizing an online manuscript submission and peer-review system.

Term: One year as Editor-Elect (2027) and five years as Editor (2028-2032). Term begins January 1, 2027, overlapping with the outgoing Editor-in-Chief. During the transition year, the Editor-Elect will shadow, train, engage in strategic planning, and build the incoming editorial leadership team. January 1, 2028: The 5-year Editor-in-Chief term begins.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain high-quality content in the journal, leading its strategic direction

• Collaborate with the publisher to drive growth, maintain high academic standards, and take part in publisher initiatives.

• Utilize online manuscript management system for handling of submissions.

• Appoint Associate Editors and an editorial board that represents global and diverse expertise in the field of pain.

• Oversee and support the Editorial Fellowship program

• Create and lead other initiatives that elevate journal content, reputation and benefit to membership.

• Lead editorial board meetings at the USASP annual meeting and maintain communication with the editorial board

• Conduct day-to-day initial manuscript assessment and assignment to Associate Editors.

• Provide ongoing training and support on journal policies, manuscript decisions, and strategic direction to the editorial team.

• Serve as the final arbiter on difficult manuscript decisions and appeals.

Qualifications:

• Active engagement in pain research with an outstanding publication record and high international regard.

• Proven experience as an editor, associate editor, or productive editorial board member for a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

• Has employer support for this role

Expected Time Commitment

Managing a high-volume journal is demanding. Because submissions arrive continuously, this role requires consistent, daily attention (particularly for the initial triage and assignment steps) rather than a single block of time. In 2025, the journal received 1571 submissions.

The Editor-in-Chief will be compensated for their time and effort, with editorial management and administrative support provided by USASP.

Application Requirements:

Interested individuals will submit an application packet including:

• A full CV.

• A letter summarizing your vision and goals for the journal over the next 5 years.

• Two letters of recommendation from peers addressing your research, scientific writing, and editorial abilities.

• A third letter of recommendation from an individual with direct knowledge of your supervisory, administrative, and communication skills.

Interest in Learning More?
Individuals considering the position are encouraged to contact Dr. Tonya Palermo for an informal conversation about the role, expected responsibilities, and her experience leading The Journal of Pain. These conversations are intended to help prospective applicants better understand the position and are not part of the formal application process.

Submission Portal: Coming Soon

Application Deadline: November 1, 2026

Virtual interviews will begin in November 2026.