Meyerson appointed senior editor of the Harm Reduction Journal

In September, Beth Meyerson, PhD, Director of the Harm Reduction Research Lab, Policy Director for the Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction, and the Beverly Benson McCord Endowed Chair at the College of Nursing, was appointed as a senior editor of the Harm Reduction Journal.

The journal was established in 2004 and is published by Springer Nature (BioMed Central). It is an open-access, peer-reviewed publication that focuses on advancing research and commentary about strategies to reduce harm related to drug use, stigma, and criminalization. The journal continues to be a leader in delivering high-quality, peer-reviewed research on harm reduction approaches to drugs and addiction.

As a senior editor, Meyerson joins a distinguished international team of harm reduction scholars, including colleagues from Johns Hopkins University, the University of British Columbia, the University of Helsinki, and other leading institutions around the world. Together, this group of editors plays a vital role in shaping the journal’s vision, advancing its mission, and guiding its scholarly work.

Senior editors oversee the peer-review process for manuscripts, uphold journal policies, and foster engagement among researchers, practitioners, and readers. They are also responsible for expanding the journal’s reach by recruiting authors, guest editors, and associate editors, as well as facilitating readers' interaction with and utilization of the journal’s content.

“This appointment reflects Dr. Meyerson’s strong dedication to advancing harm reduction research and advocacy,” said Brian Ahn, PhD, dean of the College of Nursing. “Her leadership will help reinforce the journal’s role as a trusted source for evidence-based strategies to address drug-related harms and public health challenges while also increasing the college’s influence in this vital area of public health.”

Marianne Matthias, PhD, associate dean of research, said, “Dr. Meyerson’s appointment is not just a recognition of her extensive expertise, but it also represents exemplary leadership from the College of Nursing with respect to the global harm reduction movement. Her voice on the senior editorial team will help connect research, policy, and practice, thereby helping to advance real-world solutions.”

The Harm Reduction Journal’s readership includes researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, journalists, and families worldwide who seek authoritative, freely accessible information on psychoactive drug use, public policy, and harm reduction practices. By joining its senior editorial team, Meyerson is poised to help shape global conversations about harm reduction and amplify the voices of researchers and advocates working to reduce health inequities.

 “This opportunity will provide tremendous visibility to the work we are doing at the College of Nursing and the Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction,” said Meyerson. “It is an honor to be part of an international team advancing research scholarship in this area.”