Helping researchers to peer review with confidence

Peer review is a cornerstone of academic publishing, helping ensure that research is accurate, rigorous and trustworthy. For early-career researchers, being invited to review a manuscript is both an exciting opportunity and a professional responsibility. It’s a step toward deeper engagement with the scholarly community and a meaningful way to contribute to the advancement of science.

However, for many prospective reviewers, particularly those early in their research careers, the transition from writing papers to reviewing others’ work can be challenging. They may wonder whether they are ready to accept a review invitation or how to structure feedback that is fair and constructive.

Practical guidance through online resources

To help address these challenges, Elsevier Researcher Academy provides practical guidance through the Certified Peer Reviewer Course. Recommended in the EASE Peer Review Toolkit and highlighted in a systematic review by the International Congress on Peer Review and Scientific Publication, the course is recognized as one of the few free, evidence-based online programs on peer review, providing clear, step-by-step instruction.

Co-created by professional academic editors from high impact journals to support those who are new to peer review or seeking to deepen their understanding of the process, the course was designed to be flexible and accessible, so researchers can complete it at their own pace. Core modules cover essential topics, such as what peer review is, the typical peer review process, how to get involved in peer review, and best practices for evaluating manuscripts - empowering researchers to participate confidently and ethically in the scholarly review process. Participants can earn a certificate that demonstrates their commitment to responsible peer review practices and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Bahar Mehmani, Peer Review Innovation Lead, Elsevier, commented,

It is the duty of the scholarly publishing community and academic journals to provide insight and guidelines to reviewers. It is my privilege to be part of the team who put this course together and it is rewarding to see how well it is received.

A legacy of success

To date, thousands of early-career researchers have taken steps to strengthen their reviewing skills through the Certified Peer Reviewer Course. More than 24,000 users have enrolled in the course, and over 18,000 certificates have been issued. Users consistently describe the Certified Peer Reviewer course as highly informative and helpful, noting that it enhances their skills and confidence in peer reviewing. Many users also value the professional recognition the certificate provides, noting that it enhances their credibility and supports their ongoing growth in academic publishing.

Dr. Muhammad Abid Khan, Postdoctoral Researcher, Chiba University, Japan, said,

I’m excited to share that I’ve completed the Certified Peer Reviewer Course by Elsevier Researcher Academy, a comprehensive program designed to equip researchers with the skills and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the peer review process. Peer review is the backbone of academic integrity, and this course offers invaluable training for early-career researchers and seasoned academics alike. Whether you’re new to reviewing or looking to refine your skills, I highly recommend this free, self-paced course.

For societies and universities, encouraging members to pursue peer review training can be a simple yet powerful way to strengthen their author and reviewer community. Trained reviewers bring consistency, fairness, and transparency to the review process—values that support both research quality and integrity.

At its heart, the Certified Peer Reviewer Course aims to make peer review more approachable and inclusive. By empowering new reviewers with confidence, it contributes to the research landscape where constructive feedback and mutual learning are essential drivers of scientific advancement, benefiting academia and advancing human progress.