Submit to Special Issue
Guidelines for Special Issue Manuscript Submission
Contributing to JBR Special Issues
Special issues in Journal of Big Data Research (JBR) provide focused platforms for advancing knowledge on specific, timely topics in big data science. Contributing to a special issue offers enhanced visibility through thematic coherence, targeted promotion, and concentrated readership among specialists in your research area.
Special issue manuscripts undergo the same rigorous peer review process as regular submissions, ensuring quality standards while benefiting from specialized guest editor expertise. All special issue articles are published as part of JBR's permanent archive and receive individual DOIs for independent citation.
Before submitting to a special issue, review the specific call for papers to ensure your research aligns with the topic scope and submission deadlines. View currently open special issues on our ongoing special issues page.
Submission Process for Special Issues
Review Call for Papers
Carefully read the special issue call to understand scope, topics, deadlines, and any special requirements set by guest editors
Submit via Standard Portal
Use JBR's regular submission system and indicate special issue title during submission
Guest Editor Review
Your manuscript is automatically routed to the special issue guest editor for coordination and peer review
Important: During online submission, you'll see a dropdown menu or special field for selecting the special issue title. Always indicate the correct special issue name to ensure your manuscript reaches the guest editor. If you submit via email, include the special issue title clearly in your cover letter and email subject line.
Special Issue vs. Regular Submission
Understanding the differences helps you decide whether to submit to a special issue or as a regular manuscript:
Important Submission Notes
Deadline Flexibility
While special issues have announced submission deadlines, guest editors may extend deadlines or accept late submissions on a case-by-case basis. If you're interested but will miss the deadline, contact the guest editor at [email protected] to discuss possibilities.
Same Quality Standards
Special issue submissions undergo the same rigorous peer review as regular JBR submissions. Being invited to contribute or submitting to a special issue does not guarantee acceptance—all manuscripts must meet JBR's quality standards and successfully pass peer review.
Manuscript Transfer Option
If your special issue manuscript is rejected or doesn't align with the special issue scope, guest editors may recommend transfer to regular JBR submission. Your manuscript can be considered for publication in a regular issue without requiring resubmission, preserving your submission date and reviewer comments.
APC and Member Discounts
Special issue articles are subject to standard Article Processing Charges ($2,440 USD). However, JBR members receive a 30% discount on special issue APCs, making the effective cost $1,708 USD.
How to Submit Your Manuscript
Submit special issue manuscripts using JBR's standard submission system:
Preferred Method: Online Submission
- Access Manuscript Zone submission platform
- Login or create a free author account
- Select "Journal of Big Data Research (JBR)" from journal list
- Indicate special issue title in the designated field or dropdown menu
- Complete standard submission form with manuscript details
- Upload manuscript files, figures, and supplementary materials
- Provide cover letter mentioning special issue and your research's relevance
- Submit and receive automated confirmation with manuscript ID
Alternative: Email Submission
If you experience technical difficulties with online submission:
- Email manuscript files to [email protected]
- Subject line: "Special Issue Submission - [Special Issue Title]"
- Include cover letter clearly stating which special issue you're submitting to
- Attach all required files (manuscript, figures, supplementary materials)
- Editorial office will create submission entry and provide manuscript ID
Review Process for Special Issues
Special issue manuscripts follow JBR's standard peer review process with some modifications:
Guest Editor Oversight
Guest editor manages reviewer selection and editorial decisions with JBR editorial board oversight
Expert Reviewers
Reviewers selected for specific expertise in special issue topic
Same Standards
Quality bar identical to regular submissions—no lowered standards for special issues
Coordinated Publication
Accepted articles published together as thematic collection with guest editorial introduction
Ready to Contribute?
Review current special issue calls and submit your research to contribute to focused advances in big data science.
Questions? Contact [email protected]
