Predatory journals – just say no!

In the 10 May 2019 issue of Science magazine, Assistant Professor of the University of Florida, Alan H Chambers, writes about his experience with a predatory journal.  In a moment of weakness after rejection of a manuscript, he submitted it to a newly launched journal.  It turns out it was a “predatory journal” in all aspects of the phrase.  He realized his mistake and requested it be withdrawn.  With a quality journal, this would be honored immediately.  This journal demanded payment.  Only with repeated demands from the University was the paper “let go”.  The author also suggests ways to test a journal (e.g., look at the editorial board, contact them separately to confirm, etc.).  Moral of the story – the pressure to publish are real  – but don’t succumb to submitting to these journals.