Review process

The SATW attaches great importance to the scientific quality of its publications. Each publication therefore undergoes a structured peer review process based on a double-blind procedure. The identities of authors and reviewers remain mutually anonymous. A standardized catalog of questions ensures that the review is carried out systematically and according to uniform criteria - including traceability, verifiability and objectivity.

Three bodies jointly contribute to quality assurance: the Editor-in-Chief, the Editorial Board and the reviewers.

Editor-in-chief

Dr. Tony Kaiser has overall responsibility for SATW's scientific publications. He decides on publication, manages the publication process and selects suitable reviewers in collaboration with the Editorial Board. At its request, the Executive Board elects the members of the Editorial Board. Depending on the topic of a publication, it can appoint a member of the Editorial Board as a deputy.

"Our publications are based on high scientific standards, combine sound expertise with practical issues and present complex topics in an understandable way for decision-makers in politics, business and society."

Tony Kaiser, Editor-in-Chief of SATW

Editorial Board

The Editorial Board supports the Editor-in-Chief in reviewing publications. The board assumes the following tasks:

  • Process responsibility for the double-blind review
  • Support in the selection of suitable reviewers
  • Assessing the reviews received and the revised versions
  • Preparation of decision proposals for the editor-in-chief
  • Monitoring the publications until publication

The SATW Marketing and Communications Department supports the process and coordination with the reviewers and authors.

Members of the Editorial Board

Name Affiliation
Prof. Jürgen Brugger EPFL
Prof. Christian Franck ETH Zurich
Dr. Rita Hofmann-Sievert SATW
Prof. em. Ueli Maurer ETH Zurich
Dr. Lars Sommerhäuser Empa


The Editorial Board is constantly being expanded to include further experts from industry and other disciplines.

Reviewers

The reviewers contribute their specialist expertise to the assessment of the individual publications. They are proposed by the editorial team and confirmed by the Editor-in-Chief in consultation with the Editorial Board. The selection is based on the respective subject area.

As part of the double-blind process, the experts answer a structured list of questions on aspects such as comprehensibility, verifiability and objectivity.

The SATW would like to thank all reviewers for their valuable commitment. With their professional expertise and careful examination, they make a significant contribution to the quality and credibility of SATW publications. The reviewers include members of universities from all over Switzerland as well as representatives of private companies and public administration.