Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology

Meet the Editor

Romaine F. Johnson, MD MPH FACS

What are you best known for in your research community?

I build dashboards that predict which kids need airway interventions before they hit crisis. My work translates complexity science into practical tools that help surgical teams spot patterns in tracheostomy and tonsillectomy outcomes, creating measurable quality improvements across health systems.

Why did you take the position of Editor-in-Chief with Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology?

I'm drawn to problems that don't have easy answers. Guiding an open, cross disciplinary journal lets me co design a publishing ecosystem where rigorous methods, swift feedback, and diverse voices advance ENT care for every patient.

What makes Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology special?

We're gold open-access with peer review that's both fast and supportive. Unlike journals that only want home runs, we publish negative results and replication studies. Authors get a high-visibility platform to test bold ideas and tell their complete research story, not just the headline-grabbing parts.

Which emerging advances most energize you?

AI that can diagnose hearing loss from a smartphone recording. Gene therapies tailored to individual patients. Bio-printed tracheal cartilage. Real-time networks that catch quality gaps before they hurt kids. Each breakthrough turns raw data into personalized care that can reach every patient.

In your view, what role will open science/open access play in laryngological, rhinological, and otological research?

Open science breaks down paywalls and silos. When surgical outcomes from Boston, Bangladesh, and Barcelona feed into shared knowledge repositories, we can spot patterns no single center would see. Instead of waiting years for systematic reviews, we get living analyses that update as new evidence emerges.

How do you create a successful author-editor relationship?

I start by understanding what authors really want to accomplish, then provide reviews that sharpen both their science and their storytelling. Transparency matters — I explain decisions clearly and treat every manuscript as a collaboration that makes the work stronger. I start every peer review with the following question — "If I were mentoring these authors, what would be the three most impactful improvements?".

Feeling inspired to submit your research to Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology?

Read our author guidelines.