Olivier: Hello, Regal. You recently joined Standard Error Research Editors as an editor. Welcome! Can you explain who you are and tell us more about your career?

Regal: I grew up in Minneapolis, in Minnesota in the United States, where I currently live with my partner. I have been an academic editor for over a decade, working mostly in business and humanities, with a focus on economics and public policy. Prior to joining Standard Error Research Editors, I worked for American Journal Experts, editing papers, books, and other contributions for authors from around the world, many of whose first language is not English. I hold a master’s in public policy from the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago, where I was particularly interested in children’s health and human capital development. I have also worked in public policy and community organizing.

Taking a good piece and making it great—it’s satisfying, like solving a puzzle. More than my own enjoyment, though, my primary motivation for sticking with it has been to allow good research to stand out clearly and improve its impact. 

OSC: You’ve been doing scientific editing for over a decade now. What motivated you to start and to keep doing it?

RJ: I started working as an editor during grad school, and I enjoyed it. I was usually the one to compile everyone’s contributions during group projects and edit the piece into a coherent whole, so I was interested in seeing if I could do the same kind of thing professionally. When I was offered a full-time role after graduation, I was eager to accept. I really enjoy taking a good piece and making it great—it’s satisfying, like solving a puzzle. More than my own enjoyment, though, my primary motivation for sticking with it has been to allow good research to stand out clearly and improve its impact. It’s also a great excuse to hear about new developments, both expected and unexpected. There are so many fascinating papers and people to learn from.

OSC: What led you to join Standard Error Research Editors?

RJ: When our founder Sam told me that she had put this impressive operation together, I jumped at the opportunity. Her professionalism and dedication to good research and good writing have always impressed me, and I knew that Standard Error was something I wanted to be a part of. Research, especially related to economics and policy, demands a strong presentation to have its true impact felt. I think that all of us working in these fields ultimately want to make the world a better place (otherwise why do it?), and I know we here at Standard Error are well positioned to make a meaningful contribution.

OSC: You said that you have worked in public policy and community organizing. Can you tell me more about these experiences?

RJ: In college, I did community organizing with a (sadly now gone) statewide nonprofit here in Minnesota. We worked on public interest issues like campaign finance reform, improving elections, environmental justice, and women’s rights. I registered voters, lobbied legislators, tracked legislation, and trained students to be active citizens. I served as the local chapter leader, state board representative, and board chair. I also served as an advisor after my term ended. It was a fascinating and really rewarding experience. I’ve also worked on political campaigns and party organizing.

OSC: Finally, what are your favorite activities to spend your spare time on?

RJ: In my free time, I love to hike and camp, try out new restaurants, and cook new meals and old favorites with my partner. We’ve started making fresh pasta, which is way easier and more delicious than you’d expect!

 You can learn more about Standard Error Research Editors’ team here.