Scope and focus

Desert Research Association journals welcome original research that advances knowledge across the natural sciences, social sciences, and applied fields. We encourage work that is methodologically sound, clearly written, and of interest to an international readership.

Suitable submissions include empirical studies, theoretical contributions, systematic reviews, and rigorously argued short communications. Interdisciplinary manuscripts are welcome when they speak to a clear research question.

Manuscript types

• Research articles — full reports of original investigation
• Review articles — critical syntheses of a defined literature
• Short communications — concise findings of timely interest
• Perspectives — informed commentary on emerging debates

Length and structure

Research articles are typically 4,000–8,000 words (excluding references). Reviews may run longer when justified. Short communications should usually stay under 3,000 words.

Organize the manuscript with a clear title page, structured abstract (about 150–250 words), keywords (up to six), introduction, methods, results, discussion or combined results-and-discussion, conclusions where helpful, acknowledgements, and references.

Formatting

• Submit an editable Microsoft Word file (.doc or .docx)
• Use a readable serif or sans-serif font at 11–12 pt, double-spaced body text
• Number pages consecutively; keep margins of at least 2.5 cm
• Place tables and figures with captions near first mention or as clearly labeled appendices

Citations and originality

Cite every source that informs your argument. Use a consistent author–year or numbered style as indicated by the target journal. Submissions must be original, not published elsewhere, and not under active consideration by another outlet unless disclosed to the editors.

How to submit

Use the author portal on this site. Include the manuscript file, abstract, keyword list, and corresponding-author contact details. For double-blind review, remove author names and affiliations from the manuscript file and from file metadata.

After submission

Editors screen for scope and completeness, then may send suitable manuscripts for peer review. Authors should expect editorial queries, possible revision requests, and collaborative copy-editing before publication.