Shape the future of JAAOS: Applications for editor-in-chief open now

Applications are due Nov. 15, 2026

I am writing to share an important opportunity within the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and, more personally, to encourage those who may be interested to consider putting their name forward.

AAOS is seeking nominations and applications for the next editor-in-chief of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS^®). As the leading clinical review journal in orthopaedics and the Official Journal of the AAOS, JAAOS plays an important role in how our specialty shares knowledge, interprets emerging evidence, and advances clinical practice. The editor-in-chief helps shape the vision and strategy for the broader JAAOS portfolio, including Journal of the AAOS Global Research & Reviews^® (JAAOS Global), the Official Open Access Journal of the AAOS.

Having served as editor-in-chief, I can say firsthand that this is a significant opportunity to contribute to the future of orthopaedic scholarship and education. It is a role that allows you to help shape how our profession shares knowledge, engages with emerging evidence, and supports orthopaedic surgeons in their clinical practice.

I encourage colleagues who have a passion for scholarly publishing, education, and advancing our specialty, and who meet the qualifications outlined below, to consider applying. I would also encourage you to think about colleagues who might be well suited to this role and encourage them to put their names forward.

Candidates should:

be a Fellow of the AAOS (FAAOS);
demonstrate recognized leadership in rigorous orthopaedic research, scholarly publication, and clinical practice;
have extensive experience with highly ranked, peer-reviewed orthopaedic journals as authors, peer reviewers, and associate editors or editorial board members;
bring a broad perspective on orthopaedics and an understanding of emerging areas of research; and
have access to a broad domestic and international network of experts across fields relevant to orthopaedics.

The editor-in-chief will be appointed in early 2027 as editor-in-chief designee to allow for onboarding and transition. The initial three-year term begins Jan. 1, 2028, and is renewable once.

Applications are due Nov. 15, 2026. Applications should include a cover letter describing the candidate’s interest in the position, a brief summary of editorial experience, and a curriculum vitae. Following an initial review, selected candidates will be asked to provide additional information regarding their qualifications and strategic vision for JAAOS. Finalists will be required to complete Mandatory Enhanced Disclosure.

First-round virtual interviews will be held in January 2027. A second round of in-person interviews for final candidates will take place during the AAOS Annual Meeting, March 3-6, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Apply here: https://cap.aaos.org/vacancies (AAOS member login required).

Nominations and questions may be directed to Hans Koelsch, PhD, AAOS director, publishing, at koelsch@aaos.org.

I have been fortunate to serve JAAOS in this role, and I know firsthand the impact that thoughtful editorial leadership can have on the journal and on our profession. I hope those who are considering this opportunity will take a closer look and, perhaps, see it as an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of orthopaedic scholarship.

Peter S. Rose, MD, FAAOS, is editor-in-chief of JAAOS.