Shape the Conversation in Death Studies
JOD welcomes proposals for special issues that advance the field of thanatology, end-of-life care, bereavement science, and related interdisciplinary domains. Special issues bring focused scholarship together and create a lasting reference point for clinicians, researchers, and policy leaders. We encourage proposals that address under studied populations and culturally specific practices. Proposals may include mixed methods, policy analyses, or clinical implementation studies. Global participation is welcome.
High Impact Theme
Guest Editor Support
Global Visibility
Clear Timeline
Rigorous Review
Open Access Reach
What We Look For
Timely and Relevant
Proposals should address a clear, timely theme that advances clinical practice, education, or policy related to death and dying. Interdisciplinary topics are especially welcome when they connect research with real world impact.
Editorial Leadership
Guest editors should demonstrate expertise in the proposed area and the ability to coordinate peer review. We value diversity in geography, discipline, and professional background to reflect the global nature of end-of-life care.
Feasible Scope
Successful proposals outline a manageable scope, target number of articles, and realistic timeline. We encourage submissions that can attract high quality manuscripts and complete review within agreed schedules.
Include These Elements
A strong proposal helps us evaluate feasibility and impact. Please include the following elements when submitting.
Special Issue Ideas
Evaluation Process
Proposals are reviewed by the editorial office for fit, impact, and feasibility. We assess the relevance of the topic, the strength of the guest editorial team, and the likelihood of attracting high quality submissions. Approved proposals move to a planning stage with clear timelines.
Ethics and Review Standards
All special issue manuscripts follow the same ethical standards and double-blind peer review as regular submissions. Guest editors collaborate with the JOD editorial board to ensure consistency, fairness, and scientific rigor.
Guest Editor Responsibilities
Guest editors help shape the call for papers, recommend reviewers, and provide editorial feedback under the guidance of the JOD team. They are expected to uphold confidentiality, manage conflicts of interest, and ensure that reviews are constructive and timely.
Promotion and Outreach
Strong proposals outline how the special issue will attract quality submissions. We encourage outreach to clinical networks, research groups, and professional associations. Clear communication helps build momentum and ensures the issue delivers meaningful scholarly impact.
Special issues help set the research agenda. JOD welcomes proposals that highlight emerging questions and deliver practical insights for end-of-life care.
Propose a Special Issue
Email [email protected] with your proposal summary, guest editor details, and a tentative timeline. We will respond with next steps and submission guidance. Typical response time is within 1-2 business days.
