Academic journals like the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal (CARJ) and many others would not be possible without the dedicated work of peer reviewers. For CAR member Dr. Anass Benomar, the peer reviewing experience has been a rewarding journey.
Over the past two years, Dr. Benomar has been recognized by the CARJ and the Radiology Society of North America (RSNA) for his excellent work in peer reviewing. He earned the Outstanding Reviewer Award from the CARJ in 2022 and was presented the Radiology Editor’s Award – with Special Distinction from the RSNA in 2023.
“My peer review journey started two years ago with the CARJ Reviewer Mentorship Program, armed with little-to-zero knowledge about peer review,” he said. “Two years later, and over 30 reviews for nine different journals, it feels humbling and surreal to receive these prestigious recognitions from my two favorite journals, especially as a resident!”
Dr. Benomar says he can’t take all the recognition for himself, since there are so many colleagues that have helped him along the way.
“This would not have been possible without my mentors, Dr. Jai Shankar and Dr. Birgit Ertl-Wagner, who provided precious feedback for my first reviews and helped me forge my review approach. I would also like to thank CARJ Editor-in-Chief Dr. Michael Patlas and Dr. Linda Moy, editor of the RSNA’s flagship journal Radiology, for their kind and constant support and encouragements.”
Being a peer reviewer has been an incredibly rewarding complement to his radiology career, says Dr. Benomar.
“I have personally gained so much from peer reviewing papers, both from a clinical and a research perspective. Each paper pushed me to perform a thorough literature review and was a biostatistics refresher, which enhanced my skills in planning and writing solid scientific papers as if I were one of the authors of the reviewed paper. What a substantial gain only requiring a few hours of my time! I have also gained more insight about the trajectory of peer-review articles by collaborating with various editors.”
Deciding to make the commitment to learning how to peer review articles helps to push forward the field of radiology for the benefit of doctors, students, and patients. Dr. Benomar says believes those considering it shouldn’t hesitate to get involved.
“As trainees, we might feel discouraged to review papers because of our relative lack of experience and expertise, but the reality is that you will quickly gain confidence and experience after a few reviews. I strongly consider applying to the CARJ Reviewer Mentorship Program, where you will receive feedback from a senior mentor for your first reviews in your field of interest. Other journals like the RSNA journals and AJNR, offer similar opportunities for trainees. You can also directly contact your favorite journals to become one of their reviewers.”
Congratulations to Dr. Benomar on the great achievements and recognition!