16/02/2026

Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of an Academic Editor

Written by Adam Sharp

At the start of 2026, I began my full-time career as an academic editor for RSR. With a PhD in Astrophysics and a fresh determination to contribute to the academic publishing sphere, I was ready to apply my knowledge to RSR's pioneering research. 

Having studied in Canada, I packed up my life and moved to be closer to Interstellar University to pursue my dream of becoming an Academic Editor. The first few weeks were a challenge. Not only was I adjusting to a new city, country, and job, but I was learning to apply my years of study and research to other people's works. But after some trial and error, excellent feedback from the editorial board, and some determination, it's the best decision I've ever made. 

So whether you're starting your editorial career, are a decade in, or are a curious author, let me take you through a current day of my life after I took the plunge and ended up in the best job in the world. 

Morning 

Like most of us academics, I arrive at the Press's office and turn on the coffee machine! With a foamy cappuccino in hand and a fresh smile on my face, I find my desk and get ready for the day ahead. I check my emails and write down the status of all manuscripts I've been working on. Some might have been assigned to me, some in the peer review stage, some halfway through editing. I choose the most urgent and work from there. 

Lunch

After some intense editing, proofreading, and fact checking, I head to the canteen and liase with my colleagues. I check in with the IT staff, argue with other editors about Em dashes, and discuss hashtags with our marketing team. With my meal prepped quinoa and a redbull, I am thoroughly refreshed for the afternoon. 

Afternoon

The afternoon is usually where I will double or triple check some manuscripts I have been working on. My master document really helps me through this process, having the in-house style clearly laid out for me. Our team has some of the best researchers in the country, so if I am really not sure on a fact, I know at least one person will be able to advise me. As the day wraps up, I make sure to finalise any manuscripts I am working on and update my Managing editor on my tasks. When 5pm hits, I shut my laptop and head out the door. 

Evening

Evenings consist of curling up on the sofa with my cat and watching a TV show. I'm always so excited to get back into the office and start my next day as an Academic Editor!