The Reviewer of the Month for September 2024: Malik Galijasevic, MD, PhD

Peer review plays a vital role in the scientific publishing process, ensuring that research papers uphold high standards of quality and accuracy. Each month, the BiomolBiomed Editorial team honors a reviewer who has delivered outstanding feedback on the manuscripts they have assessed.

This month, we are delighted to announce that Malik Galijasevic, MD, PhD, has been awarded the Reviewer of the Month. Dr. Galijasevic earned his MD from the University of Sarajevo and completed his PhD in 2023 at the Medical University of Innsbruck within the Image Guided Diagnosis and Therapy Programme. He is currently serving as a radiology resident at the University Hospital Innsbruck. His review stood out for its exceptional quality, offering valuable insights that significantly helped authors improve the clarity and rigor of their research.

After receiving this recognition, we spoke with Dr. Galijasevic about his current research priorities and his peer review approach. Here are some highlights from our conversation:

Could you provide an overview of your research priorities and express your thoughts on any recent innovations or major challenges currently affecting your field?

My current area of expertise is neuroradiology, and I am involved in numerous projects in diagnostic and interventional neuroradiology. Primary project is the usage of special MRI techniques in neuro-oncology (proton and phosphorous MR-spectroscopy, functional MRI, diffusion tensor imaging and others), but I am also involved in other projects, for example in artificial intelligence (AI) in pediatric neuroradiology, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke research and others. It is impossible not to mention the challenge of incorporating AI in everyday practice, and I find that to be the main challenge in medicine today. Furthermore, the major breakthroughs in interventional radiology are happening every day.

What initially attracted you to the role of manuscript reviewer? How do you manage your time between manuscript reviews and your own research activities?

I very gladly do manuscript review because I find it a great way to learn something new. Of course, as the question implies the time management is always a problem, especially due to the high work load in the clinical setting. Often, this is done in free time.

What advice would you give to new reviewers who are just starting in the peer-review process?

I would like to encourage young colleagues to do research, and through research also the peer-review process. It is a great way to learn even for experienced clinicians/reviewers.