Publication Ethics and Integrity Policies

Archaeological Research is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct in research, review, and publication. The following principles govern all submissions and editorial decisions.

· Peer review and editorial oversight.

The journal employs a double-blind peer-review process. Manuscripts are assessed for originality, methodological soundness, scholarly significance, and relevance. Reviewers must provide objective, constructive, and timely evaluations and must maintain strict confidentiality. Misconduct such as use of privileged information or breach of anonymity will result in removal from the reviewer pool.

· Conflict of interest disclosure.

Authors must disclose any potential conflicts of interest—financial, professional, or personal—that may influence the research or its interpretation. Editors and reviewers must recuse themselves when conflicts arise. Undisclosed conflicts that affect the integrity of the review or publication process will trigger an investigation and corrective action.

· Data authenticity and research integrity.

All data presented in manuscripts must be accurate, complete, and honestly reported. Fabrication, falsification, manipulation, or selective reporting of data constitutes a serious ethical violation. The editorial office may request raw data, methodological clarification, or documentation as part of the review process. Confirmed misconduct will result in rejection, retraction, and notification of relevant institutions.

· Authorship and contribution.

Authorship must reflect substantial scholarly contribution—such as conceptualization, data acquisition, analysis, or manuscript drafting. All authors must approve the final manuscript and agree to submission. Disputes may trigger editorial investigation and, where appropriate, correction or withdrawal.

· Ethical compliance in archaeological research.

For studies involving human remains, ancient DNA, museum collections, culturally sensitive materials, or community-based research, authors must comply with relevant laws, institutional protocols, and ethical guidelines. When appropriate, documentation of permits, approvals, or community agreements should be provided.

· Post-publication policies.

The journal is committed to maintaining accuracy and transparency after publication. Authors must notify the editorial office of any errors discovered in their work. Depending on the severity of the issue, the journal may publish a correction, expression of concern, or retraction. Proven academic misconduct may result in sanctions, including suspension of future submissions.