BMC’s editorial policies apply to all journals published by BMC. Editors should ensure that published articles conform to the journal’s policies. Editors are also expected to adhere to the Springer Nature Code of Conduct for Editors and COPE Core Practices, which aim to promote and support ethical practices in publishing.
Code of Conduct
You can find the Springer Nature Code of Conduct for Editors here: https://www.springernature.com/gp/editors/code-of-conduct
The Code of Conduct is based on guidelines and best practice recommendations issued by organizations such as the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). Adhering to these will ensure that you are working to the highest standard of editorial practice.
In addition, as members of the COPE, Editors are expected to adhere to the COPE Core Practices.
For further guidance, take the Springer Nature Code of Conduct e-learning course: https://resources.springernature.com/
Where to get help
You can review the BMC editorial policies here.
If you identify a potential research integrity issue or have any questions, your journal contact is on hand to provide guidance.
In some cases, your journal contact, may ask the Springer Nature Research Integrity Group (SNRIG) for further advice. The SNRIG is dedicated to promoting best publication practice and supporting editors to resolve publication ethics issues.
Additional resources
COPE resources
COPE provides a suite of online resources, including a series of flowcharts, to help editors follow the COPE Core Practices and handle cases of suspected misconduct.
Code of Conduct e-learning course
Take this course to discover more about the basic principles of editorial policies, manuscript handling, conflicts of interest, libellous and defamatory material, field-specific policies and post publication issues.
Using Crossref Similarity Check
Find downloadable guides to using Crossref Similarity Check here.
E-Learning Courses
Click here to access a collection of free e-learning courses intended to provide help for both new and experienced Springer Nature Editors. These courses provide an introduction to the fundamental aspects of the editorial role, and for specific or challenging situations that an Editor may face.