Journal of Biological Chemistry Editor-in-Chief Calls for New Leadership Search

BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The longtime editor-in-chief of The Journal of Biological Chemistry has asked that a search begin for a new leader to take the reins of the journal in 2011.

Herbert Tabor, a distinguished researcher at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases in Bethesda, Md., and who has led the journal since 1971, said he will assume the role of emeritus editor when his predecessor is ready to take over. He notified the leadership of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which publishes the JBC and two other scientific journals, of his decision in late August.

"As you can understand, I made this decision reluctantly, as I am still fully active all day at the lab and working for the journal in the evening," Tabor told the members of the JBC editorial board. "Still, I feel that this change is necessary for the good of the journal, and I want to ensure we have a smooth leadership transition."

While at the helm of the JBC for the past four decades, Tabor has witnessed a revolution in scientific publishing, and, in many ways, it was his journal that forged it. In 1995, for instance, the JBC was the first journal of its kind to begin publishing online. Today, it remains one of the most-highly cited scientific journals in the world.

"I cannot imagine a more devoted editor for any journal than Dr. Tabor; his shoes will be impossible to fill.  Words cannot adequately express our gratitude to Dr. Tabor for his more than 40 years of leadership, thoughtful oversight and vision," said Suzanne Pfeffer, president of ASBMB and faculty member at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Robert Simoni, the JBC's deputy editor and a professor at Stanford University, said of Tabor, "It would be a monumental understatement to say that JBC would not have become what it is without Herb's leadership. Thankfully, we will still be able to draw on his experience, wisdom and exceptionally good judgment as he takes on this new role at the JBC."

According to Pfeffer, a search committee has been formed, and nominations of candidates to fill the position will be accepted through Nov. 1.

"I have assembled a search committee that includes two past presidents of ASBMB and several JBC associate editors, and we will do our best to identify a suitable successor," Pfeffer said. "We have already received the names of several highly qualified candidates and welcome nominations."

The new editor will begin his/her five-year term Jan. 1, and he/she will be co-editor with Tabor for the first year of that term.

About the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The ASBMB is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization with more than 12,000 members worldwide. Most members teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. Others conduct research in various government laboratories, at nonprofit research institutions and in industry. The Society's student members attend undergraduate or graduate institutions.  For more information about ASBMB, visit www.asbmb.org.  

SOURCE American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology