The Irish Journal of Agricultural and Food Research is a peer reviewed open access scientific journal published by Compuscript on behalf of Teagasc (Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Ireland). Manuscripts on any aspect of research of direct relevance to Irish agriculture and food production, including plant and animal sciences, food science, agri-environmental science, soils, engineering, buildings, economics and sociology, will be considered for publication. The work must demonstrate novelty and relevance to the field of research. Papers published or offered for publication elsewhere will not be considered, but the publication of an abstract does not preclude the publication of the full paper in this journal.
Types of papers
The IJAFR publishes a number of types of papers:
Original research papers – These are original articles reporting cutting-edge research of international relevance that has clear implications for the agri-food sector. The IJAFR recognises the importance of original and high-quality research that is of particular relevance to Ireland and encourages papers that report such research. Papers should not exceed 8,000 words (introduction, materials and methods, results and discussion, but excluding references).
Research notes – these are original articles reporting original research from limited investigations which will not be included in a full-length paper. Research notes should not exceed 2,500 words (including introduction, materials and methods, results and discussion, tables and illustrations, but excluding references).
Review papers – Relevant and appropriate critical review papers will be considered. It is recommended to contact the Editor in advance of preparing a review, giving the author(s) name(s), and an outline and justification for the review. These should be no longer than 10,000 to 12,000 words.
Perspective papers – Contributions up to 8,000 words in length that present research-based work that informs policy. Submissions are welcomed on a wide range of subjects relating to policy directions, decision-making and implementation of policies relevant to the agri-food sector. We welcome papers that develop dialogue between the research community and, for example, decision-makers in agri-business, government and NGOs. Contributors should avoid articles that focus on methodology. The focus of these articles should be on informing and improving policy, rather than simply critiques of policy decisions, and any opinions should be supported by a clear evidence base. Articles should be set within a broad policy context and relate to the wider issues around constrained decision making. Authors are advised to discuss the proposed topic with the editor in advance of submitting a perspective paper.
Special issues – Occasionally special issues are published which have a central theme. The senior editor should be approached at least six months before an event to allow time for the peer review process. Upon submission, all manuscripts will be processed through plagiarism detection software in which the manuscript will be screened against previously published literature. Plagiarised manuscripts will be rejected immediately. After plagiarism screening all submissions will be viewed by the senior editor, suitable submissions will be sent to a subject editor who has the responsibility of having it reviewed by peers. This review process is confidential. All papers are subject to single-blind peer review.