Why Researchers Choose Marine Geology for High-Impact Publications
Marine Geology has established itself as a cornerstone in the field of environmental earth geosciences since its inception in 1964. Published by Elsevier, this journal focuses on the geological processes shaping ocean basins, continental margins, and coastal environments. Researchers are drawn to Marine Geology for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to advancing knowledge in marine sedimentology, paleoceanography, and tectonic influences on seafloor morphology. The journal's scope encompasses a wide array of topics, from deep-sea sedimentation patterns to the impacts of climate change on coastal erosion.
With an impact factor of 3.4, Marine Geology provides substantial value for authors seeking to disseminate their findings to a global audience of geoscientists, oceanographers, and environmental scientists. Its hybrid publication model allows flexibility between traditional subscription access and open access options, ensuring broader reach without compromising quality. The journal's editorial board, comprising experts from leading institutions worldwide, upholds high standards, making acceptance a mark of excellence.
Submissions to Marine Geology often explore interdisciplinary themes, integrating geophysics, geochemistry, and biology to understand marine environments. This holistic approach not only enhances the journal's prestige but also positions it as essential reading for professionals tracking advancements in earth sciences. For those navigating academic careers, publishing here can open doors to collaborations and funding opportunities in marine research.
As environmental challenges like sea-level rise intensify, Marine Geology remains pivotal in documenting geological responses. Researchers benefit from its comprehensive coverage, which includes special issues on emerging topics such as submarine landslides and methane hydrate dynamics. To elevate your research profile, consider submitting to this influential outlet. Explore geology faculty positions or check the academic calendar for upcoming deadlines and events.
Overview & History
Marine Geology was launched in 1964 by Elsevier to address the growing need for a dedicated forum on marine geological sciences. Initially focusing on sediment transport and depositional environments, it has evolved to cover broader aspects of marine geophysics and paleoclimatology. Over the decades, the journal has published seminal works that have shaped understandings of plate tectonics in oceanic settings and the role of marine processes in global carbon cycles.
Key milestones include the integration of advanced modeling techniques in the 1990s and the emphasis on climate-related marine geology in recent years. Today, it serves as a vital resource for documenting human impacts on marine ecosystems, such as pollution effects on seafloor stability. Its longevity underscores Elsevier's commitment to fostering innovation in environmental earth geosciences.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal's scope centers on all aspects of marine geology, including but not limited to sedimentation, stratigraphy, and geohazards in marine environments. It welcomes studies on coastal dynamics, submarine volcanism, and the geological record of past environmental changes.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Environmental Earth Geosciences | Core focus on marine sediments and ocean floor processes. |
| Oceanography | Integration of physical and chemical oceanography with geology. |
| Sedimentology | Analysis of depositional systems in marine basins. |
| Paleoceanography | Reconstruction of ancient marine climates through geological proxies. |
| Marine Geophysics | Seismic and magnetic studies of seafloor structures. |
Key Journal Metrics
Marine Geology's metrics reflect its standing in the academic community, with consistent growth in citations and submissions.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 3.4 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 7.3 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 124 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
| Time to First Decision | 4.3 weeks (median) | Journal Site |
Indexing and Abstracting
Marine Geology is indexed in major databases, ensuring discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (Science Citation Index Expanded), and GeoRef. Additional coverage includes Current Contents/Physical, Chemical and Earth Sciences, and the Directory of Open Access Journals for open access articles. These affiliations enhance citation potential and accessibility for researchers worldwide. For more on indexing, visit the Scopus database.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, Marine Geology offers both subscription-based and open access publication. Authors opting for open access pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) of €3,690 (excluding taxes). Subscription access is available through institutional licenses via Elsevier. No fees apply for traditional publication, making it accessible for a range of budgets. Policies align with Plan S compliance for funders requiring open access.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via the Elsevier Editorial System (EES) online portal. Guidelines emphasize original research with clear methodological descriptions and data availability statements. Word limits are flexible but typically 8,000 words, with figures and tables integrated seamlessly. Peer review involves 2-3 experts, focusing on scientific merit and novelty. Revisions are common, with decisions communicated within 4-6 weeks. Detailed instructions are on the official journal homepage.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board features distinguished geoscientists, led by Editor-in-Chief Thierry Mulder from the University of Bordeaux. Other key members include experts in marine sediment dynamics from institutions like the USGS and JAMSTEC. Their diverse backgrounds ensure balanced oversight across global marine research challenges. Board members contribute to special issues, enhancing thematic depth.
Why Publish in Marine Geology?
Publishing in Marine Geology offers visibility among interdisciplinary audiences, with articles frequently cited in policy reports on ocean health. The journal's focus on high-impact topics like sea-level rise positions authors at the forefront of environmental debates. Benefits include rapid online publication post-acceptance and integration into Elsevier's vast digital library. For career advancement, see Rate My Professor for insights from peers.
Comparison with Similar Journals
Marine Geology compares favorably with peers in scope and metrics, emphasizing marine-specific geology.
| Journal | Publisher | Impact Factor | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Geology | Elsevier | 3.4 | Marine sediments and geohazards |
| Journal of Sedimentary Research | SEPM | 2.8 | Sedimentary processes broadly |
| Quaternary Science Reviews | Elsevier | 4.2 | Paleoclimate and quaternary geology |
| Deep-Sea Research Part I | Elsevier | 3.1 | Deep ocean biological oceanography |
| Geology | Geological Society of America | 5.4 | General earth sciences |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed in submitting to Marine Geology, ensure your manuscript addresses a clear research gap with robust data. Use high-resolution visuals for seafloor maps and follow IMRAD structure strictly. Engage with recent articles for contextualization, and consider co-authoring with international collaborators for broader appeal. Pre-submission inquiries to the editor can clarify fit. Track progress via the portal, and prepare for iterative feedback. For job opportunities post-publication, browse environmental science jobs. Additional tips include adhering to ethical standards and open data policies.