Guidelines for Authors

Our journal is different from what you would expect from a traditional scientific journal. We aim to provide a platform for undergraduates to practice science communication and elevate your research. We center our journal around the researcher's personal voice and environmental science that is made relevant and approachable to all. To get an idea of the type of articles we publish, check out our past issues.

Formats

We have two formats where we feature our commissioned articles:

Feature Article. ~3,000 words, 3-4 figures. A standard peer-reviewed article, with a researcher-focused, general science tone and style. We typically only accept one Feature Article per issue.

Research Communications. 1,000-1,500 words, 1-2 figures. An article that has a more informal tone and focus. This can take on two general forms: a short technical summary, or a story that relates personal experiences to research.

Eligibility and Expectations

Submissions from University of Washington undergraduates from all campuses are welcome. Priority will be given to environmental/ecological majors. As FieldNotes advocates for novel research and original thinking, articles that are written with artificial intelligence (AI) tools will not be accepted.

Organization

Two editors from the FieldNotes editorial board will help edit the article to reflect the style of the journal and assist with the writing process and source-finding as is practicable. Revision schedules will be set by the editors working with you –– see the responsibilities and timeline below.

Responsibilities

Contributing to the journal is a full-quarter commitment, so we expect authors to meet deadlines, respond to feedback on time, and communicate with the editorial board throughout the quarter. 

Timeline for 2026 Submissions

  • 2/8 – Initial first draft submission (EOD sunday before week 6)

  • 2/22 – Second draft (EOD sunday before week 8)

  • 3/8 – Final draft (EOD sunday before week 10)