The Alcohol and Drugs History Society (ADHS) invites applications for the position of Editor-in-Chief of its peer-reviewed journal The Social History of Alcohol and Drugs, published by the University of Chicago Press. This position is typically held by three co-Editors; applicants may apply individually or as a team. The Social History of Alcohol and Drugs: An Interdisciplinary Journal requires a dynamic and visionary team of editors to guide the editorial direction of the journal, manage its content, and foster its continued growth and academic impact. The Editors will also serve as Officers of the Society. 

About the Journal

The Social History of Alcohol and Drugs, published by the University of Chicago Press, is a leading journal in the field of drug history, offering scholarly analysis of the social, cultural, political, and economic aspects of drug use, policy, and regulation. Published twice per year, the journal addresses historical developments from a global perspective, engaging scholars from a variety of disciplines and perspectives. Our readership includes academics, researchers, and policymakers interested in the historical contexts of drugs and drug policy.

Role and Responsibilities

The Editors will play a key role in shaping the intellectual and academic direction of the journal, ensuring it remains at the forefront of research on the social history of drugs. The Editors will be expected to be engaged leaders with a clear vision for the journal’s future, driving the production of high-quality research and fostering scholarly discourse. Activities will include managing manuscript solicitation and peer review, overseeing special issues, and coordinating the editorial board. The Editors will work with the publisher to maintain production schedules and ensure the timely publication of high-quality content. Additionally, they will promote the journal at conferences, foster diversity in scholarship, and implement strategies for growth. Upholding ethical publishing standards and maintaining strong relationships with authors, reviewers, and the editorial team are also essential aspects of the role. Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Developing and implementing an editorial vision for the journal that reflects its mission and goals.
• Overseeing the manuscript submission and peer review process, ensuring the timely publication of high-quality content.
• Encouraging submissions from diverse scholars and promoting special issues or themed sections.
• Managing editorial workflows and working with the publisher to maintain production schedules.
• Strategically growing the journal’s readership and increasing its academic impact.

Desired Background & Qualifications

The Editors of The Social History of Alcohol and Drugs will play a crucial role in ensuring the journal maintains its reputation as a premier publication in the field of drug history. While there is no exact fit, we are seeking candidates with the following qualifications:

• An academic background in a field relevant to the social history of drugs, such as history, sociology, anthropology, or public health (PhD preferred).
• Experience in scholarly publishing, particularly in journal editing or related roles.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage editorial teams and workflows effectively.
• Familiarity with current trends in academic publishing, including digital publishing and open access models.
• A commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse scholarly community.
• A record of timeliness, organization, and responsiveness when working with multiple stakeholders

Proposal Requirements

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following materials:

Cover Letter 

• Outline your interest in the position, relevant qualifications, and how your vision aligns with the mission of the journal
• Provide an editorial vision statement (no more than 1,000 words) that outlines your aspirations for The Social History of Alcohol and Drugs, including any strategies for increasing the journal’s impact, promoting diversity in submissions, and attracting high-quality research. 
• Discuss any collaborative administrative experience relevant to the successful management of peer review, communication with authors, and oversight of an editorial team at a scholarly journal.

CV or Résumé: A current curriculum vitae detailing your academic background, editorial experience, and any relevant publications or professional experience.

References: Names and contact information of at least two references who can speak to your qualifications for the editorial role.

Selection Process and Timeline

Proposals should be submitted by January 15, 2025, at the latest. The ADHS selection committee will evaluate proposals based on the candidate’s academic qualifications, editorial experience, vision for the journal, and leadership abilities. Decisions will be made by May-June 2025 and the incoming editorial team will be expected to shadow and train with the outgoing editorial team. The successful candidate or candidates will begin the appointment in January 2026 for a term of four years, with the possibility of renewal based on performance.

Compensation

The Editor role(s) at SHAD are unpaid positions and will be Officers of the ADHS. The Editors will have access to funds for activities (workshops, conferences, support for early career researchers) to support the journal, the field, and the Society, including editorial participation in those activities as needed.

Please submit all materials to [email protected]. Questions about the position or the application process may be directed to president@ alcoholanddrugshistorysociety.org.