In scholarly research, the importance of peer review is undisputable. As the cornerstone of high-quality academic publishing, rigorous peer review encourages trust, maximises quality, and maintains the integrity of the scientific record.

Within this, the reviewer’s role is of paramount importance. Often unseen and unrewarded, reviewers evaluate manuscripts, screening for the highest standards of rigor, relevance, and ethical conduct.

In acknowledgment of their contributions, the Outstanding Reviewer Award is given by journals annually to recognize those who have dedicated their time to reviewing papers and displayed thoroughness, professionalism, and timeliness while doing so.

Here, we outline the selection criteria and benefits of the Outstanding Reviewer Award and highlight some of its recent recipients.

Outstanding Reviewer Award selection criteria

‘Outstanding reviewers’ are those that have gone above and beyond in generously dedicating their time and providing invaluable feedback during the peer review process.

Recipients of the Outstanding Reviewer Award do not have to apply or be nominated to receive the award. All individuals who have served as a reviewer within the previous year are automatically eligible.

Winners are chosen by the journals’ awards committee, usually led by the Editor-in-Chief, based on the following criteria:

• Number of review reports
• The quality of review reports

Prizes

Prizes for the Outstanding Reviewer Award are chosen by the journal, so monetary prize amounts may vary. Typically, recipients of the Outstanding Reviewer Award receive an official certificate, a cash prize, and a fully waived or discounted Article Processing Charge (APC).

Complete or partially discounted APCs give scholars the opportunity to publish within the MDPI journal, providing an outlet for their future work. Furthermore, cash prizes provide an additional incentive for reviewers.

Testimonials

“It has been a very positive and rewarding experience to serve as a reviewer for Pharmaceuticals. The manuscripts I have reviewed so far cover a wide range of topics in pharmacology, drug development, and molecular mechanisms, many of which align closely with my research interests. I find the review process to be well-organized and the editorial communication to be timely and clear.” – Dr. Changmin Peng, reviewer for Pharmaceuticals.

“Serving as a reviewer has greatly influenced how I approach writing and preparing my manuscripts. Reviewing others’ work has helped me understand what makes a manuscript strong, clear, and compelling to a reader. It has also increased my awareness of potential reviewer problems, such as missing references, methodological clarity, or limitations.” – Dr. Muthuraj Arunpandian, reviewer for Catalysts.

“My experience has been outstanding. As an author and a reviewer, I appreciate the excellent, fast, and helpful contact with the academic editors and the assistant publishing house.” – Dr. Dorota Formanowicz, reviewer for Biomedicines.

Celebrating reviewers

MDPI remains committed to uplifting reviewers and rewarding their crucial role within MDPI’s rigorous and transparent peer review process.

In addition to the Outstanding Reviewer Award, MDPI offers benefits for its reviewers. Reviewers can receive discounted APCs, vouchers for professional English Editing, personalized certificates, and more.

If you are thinking about reviewing for an MDPI journal, you can apply directly on the journal website. To learn more, visit the Guidelines for Reviewers page.

MDPI’s commitment to supporting researchers

Awards allow MDPI to give back to the academic community. They increase the visibility of research, encourage open communication between scientists, and highlight their outstanding achievements.

Alongside the Outstanding Reviewer Award, MDPI offers a series of other journal awards, such as the Best PhD Thesis Award, Travel Award, Best Paper Award, and more.

Read our article covering everything you need to know about MDPI’s awards program; alternatively, you can visit the MDPI awards webpage for more information.