Leadership Crisis Deepens at Chemical & Engineering News

A leadership crisis has emerged at Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN), a publication of the American Chemical Society. The situation escalated when the editorial board publicly expressed its lack of confidence in the publication’s current leadership. This unprecedented move has raised significant concerns about the future direction of a magazine that has informed the chemistry community for decades.

The editorial board’s statement, released on October 5, 2023, indicates a growing discontent with the management style and decision-making processes at C&EN. Board members highlighted a series of strategic missteps that they believe have compromised journalistic integrity and the publication’s credibility. They called for immediate changes to ensure C&EN remains a trusted source of information in the field of chemistry.

This turmoil comes at a critical time when the publication faces competition from digital platforms that offer timely updates and insights. As the landscape of scientific communication evolves, the pressure mounts on traditional outlets like C&EN to adapt and innovate. The editorial board’s actions suggest that they are not only concerned about current leadership but also about the long-term viability of the publication in an increasingly digital world.

The American Chemical Society, which oversees C&EN, has yet to release an official statement addressing the board’s concerns. However, insiders indicate that discussions are underway regarding potential leadership changes, and the society is evaluating the feedback from the editorial board seriously.

C&EN has been a cornerstone of the chemistry community since its founding, offering in-depth analysis and reporting on the latest developments in the field. The recent upheaval raises questions about how the publication will navigate this period of uncertainty and what measures will be taken to restore trust within the scientific community.

As the situation develops, stakeholders within the chemistry field are closely monitoring the response from both the editorial board and the American Chemical Society. The outcome will likely have lasting implications not only for C&EN but also for the broader landscape of scientific journalism.

The crisis at C&EN underscores the importance of strong leadership and clear communication in organizations that serve specialized communities. As the publication grapples with these challenges, it remains to be seen how it will realign its mission and restore confidence among its readership.