Why Researchers Choose Journal of the American Chemical Society for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of the American Chemical Society stands as a cornerstone in chemical research, renowned for publishing groundbreaking discoveries that shape the field. Established in 1879 by the American Chemical Society, it has evolved into one of the most cited journals globally, attracting submissions from leading chemists worldwide. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures only the highest-quality work sees publication, making it a top choice for PhD fellows seeking to establish their reputation.
With a focus on original research across all chemistry subdisciplines, the journal emphasizes innovative contributions that advance fundamental understanding and practical applications. Researchers value its broad readership, which includes academics, industry professionals, and policymakers, amplifying the visibility of published work. The Journal of the American Chemical Society impact factor of 15.0 reflects its influence, as measured by Clarivate Journal Citation Reports. For PhD candidates, publishing here signals excellence and opens doors to fellowships, grants, and collaborations.
The journal's hybrid model allows authors to choose open access, increasing accessibility without compromising selectivity. Its commitment to rapid yet thorough review—typically 4-6 weeks for initial decisions—balances speed with depth. Editorial policies promote ethical standards, reproducibility, and diversity in authorship, fostering an inclusive environment for emerging scholars. As chemistry intersects with biology, materials science, and energy, the Journal of the American Chemical Society remains pivotal for interdisciplinary breakthroughs.
PhD fellows benefit from detailed submission guidelines that guide manuscript preparation, from abstract writing to data presentation. Success stories abound of early-career researchers whose JACS papers propelled their careers, leading to prestigious positions. To explore opportunities, consider reviewing PhD programs in chemistry or checking the academic calendar for deadlines.
Overview & History
The Journal of the American Chemical Society, often abbreviated as JACS, was founded in 1879 as the official publication of the American Chemical Society. Initially focused on disseminating chemical knowledge in the United States, it quickly gained international prominence. Over the decades, it has chronicled pivotal advancements, from the discovery of new elements to innovations in synthetic methods.
Today, JACS publishes weekly, featuring full-length research articles, communications, and perspectives. Its evolution mirrors chemistry's growth, incorporating computational modeling, nanotechnology, and sustainable practices. The journal's editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Erick M. Carreira, upholds a tradition of excellence while adapting to modern publishing needs.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The Journal of the American Chemical Society covers the entire spectrum of chemical sciences, welcoming manuscripts on fundamental and applied research. It prioritizes novelty, significance, and broad interest, excluding purely descriptive or incremental studies.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Organic Chemistry | Synthesis, mechanisms, and reactivity of carbon-based compounds. |
| Inorganic Chemistry | Coordination compounds, organometallics, and main-group elements. |
| Physical Chemistry | Thermodynamics, kinetics, spectroscopy, and quantum chemistry. |
| Analytical Chemistry | Methods for characterization, separation, and quantification. |
| Biochemistry | Chemical processes in biological systems, including enzymology. |
| Materials Chemistry | Design and properties of polymers, nanomaterials, and catalysts. |
Interdisciplinary topics, such as chemical biology or energy storage, are encouraged if they offer chemical insights.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 15.0 | Clarivate JCR 2023 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 15.6 | Clarivate JCR 2023 |
| CiteScore | 18.2 | Scopus 2023 |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
| Average Time to First Decision | 4-6 weeks | Publisher data |
| Articles Published Annually | ~2,500 | ACS reports |
These metrics underscore JACS's position as a high-impact venue, with citations driving its prestige.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of the American Chemical Society is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. Key services include Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed (for relevant articles), Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS), and Google Scholar. This coverage facilitates tracking of research impact through h-index and altmetrics. Authors can access full abstracts via the official journal homepage or Scopus at scopus.com.
Publication Model and Fees
JACS operates a hybrid model: subscription-based access with an open access option via ACS AuthorChoice. For open access, authors pay an article processing charge (APC) of $4,500, covering peer review, production, and perpetual access. No fees apply for subscription publication. Waivers are available for corresponding authors from low-income countries. Policies align with Plan S compliance, promoting equitable access. Details are outlined on the publisher's site.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the ACS Paragon Plus portal. Manuscripts must be original, unpublished, and formatted per ACS style: double-spaced, with supporting information for data. Cover letters should highlight novelty and significance. Ethical requirements include ORCID iD, conflict disclosures, and data availability statements. Reviewers provide constructive feedback, with revisions often required. For tips, see postdoc positions in chemistry to build submission skills.
- Prepare abstract (150-200 words) emphasizing impact.
- Include graphical abstract for visual appeal.
- Ensure supplementary materials support claims.
- Check plagiarism via iThenticate.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board comprises distinguished chemists from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Erick M. Carreira (ETH Zurich) oversees strategy, supported by associate editors like Christopher C. Cummins (MIT) for inorganic chemistry and Laura L. Kiessling (MIT) for chemical biology. Their expertise ensures balanced, expert review. Board members represent global diversity, enhancing the journal's perspective.
Why Publish in Journal of the American Chemical Society?
Publishing in the Journal of the American Chemical Society elevates a researcher's profile, with papers often cited thousands of times. It offers rapid dissemination to a global audience, career advancement for PhD fellows, and networking via ACS events. The journal's rigor builds credibility, while its scope accommodates diverse innovations. For career guidance, visit higher ed jobs in chemistry faculty or rate my professor.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angewandte Chemie | 16.6 | Wiley | Broad chemistry, communications |
| Chemical Reviews | 60.6 | ACS | Review articles only |
| Nature Chemistry | 24.4 | Nature | Interdisciplinary, high novelty |
| Journal of the American Chemical Society | 15.0 | ACS | Original research across chemistry |
| Chemistry - A European Journal | 5.2 | Wiley | Full papers in all areas |
JACS excels in volume and citation impact compared to peers, ideal for comprehensive studies.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed with Journal of the American Chemical Society submissions, prioritize originality and clarity. Tailor abstracts to highlight chemical innovation. Use high-quality figures and validate data rigorously. Engage with recent JACS articles for context. Seek feedback from mentors before submitting. Track progress via the portal and respond promptly to reviews. For broader support, explore PhD fellowships in chemistry or research grants. Persistence pays off in this competitive arena.