June 24, 2025 | Chengdu—School of Economics and Management (SEM) at Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) successfully hosted a prestigious academic workshop titled “Face to Face workshop with editors-in-chief”, bringing together top editorial leaders from renowned international journals to engage directly with researchers and graduate students.
The event, aimed at enhancing research quality, fostering scholarly exchange, and demystifying the publication process, attracted over 150 faculty members and postgraduate scholars from institutions across China. Participants gained firsthand insights into journal expectations, peer review criteria, and effective submission strategies.
Professor Han Ke, Dean of SEM, delivered the opening remarks, extending a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and participants, and emphasizing the school’s commitment to advancing globally competitive research.
Featured keynote speakers include:
Professor Nie Yu from Northwestern University, department editor of Transportation Science, recognized for his significant contributions to the transportation field and numerous influential academic papers;
Professor Wai Yuen Szeto from The University of Hong Kong, co-editor-in-chief of Transportmetrica B, who possesses extensive experience and deep insights in both academic research and practical applications;
Professor Zhang Anming from The University of British Columbia, Co-Editor-in-Chief of Transportation Research Part A, who has made remarkable achievements through continuous innovation in his research;
Professor Ge Ying-en from Chang'an University, Co-Editor-in-Chief of Transportation Research Part D, who has profound expertise and experience in transportation research;
Professor Wang Donggen from Hong Kong Baptist University, Co-Editor-in-Chief of Travel Behaviour and Society, whose research explores behavioral dynamics in travel decision-making;
Professor Cao Xinyu from University of Minnesota, Co-Editor-in-Chief of Transportation Research Part D, acclaimed for his interdisciplinary studies on transportation-user interactions and satisfaction metrics.
A highlight of the workshop was the panel discussion titled “Journal Submission and Publication Roundtable”, during which editors shared practical guidance on “avoiding desk rejections”, “responding professionally to reviewer feedback”, and “the responsible use of AI tools in research”. They underscored that while AI can assist in data processing or language polishing, originality and theoretical rigor must remain grounded in human insight and real-world relevance. The editors also highlighted the value of structured, professional communication with reviewers.
The workshop provided an invaluable platform for direct dialogue between researchers and leading journal editors. By bridging the gap between researchers and gatekeepers of top-tier journals, the workshop reinforced SEM’s growing role in the global academic community. Looking ahead, the school will continue to host such high-quality academic events to further strengthen its research culture and international visibility.
