As the new Editor-in-Chief of Merits, I am truly excited to help steer the journal in a new direction. Merits has a strong tradition of supporting top-notch research that explores the intricate connections among individuals, organizations, and society. I am enthusiastic about broadening our scope to explore new and evolving areas of study that mirror the dynamic nature of today’s workforce and society.
We are at a pivotal juncture in history as technological innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) transform workplaces, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Our journal will explore the interactions of AI and humans in the workplace, providing valuable insights into how these technologies can cultivate more inclusive, efficient, and supportive work environments. Additionally, we will decisively engage with studies on teleworking and hybrid working models, examining how these innovations significantly impact productivity, work–life balance, and organizational culture.
Building on these technological advancements, Merits will place a strong emphasis on traditional yet fundamental areas, such as the psychology of sustainability within work and organizational contexts. We acknowledge that sustainability in the workplace extends beyond environmental considerations; it encompasses mental well-being, fair work conditions, and the promotion of decent work for all, aligning closely with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
I am dedicated to ensuring that Merits remains a platform for respected authors and scholars in the field. I will ask them to contribute innovative research that influences the future of work and organizations. Together, we will make sure that Merits maintains high standards for academic excellence while adapting to the changing landscape of work.
My background includes extensive experience in academic research and editorial leadership. My focus has predominantly been on organizational behavior, human resources management, and work psychology. Throughout my academic journey, I have had the opportunity to deeply explore interdisciplinary approaches to comprehending work, human behavior, and organizational dynamics. These are the insights and expertise that I aim to bring to Merits as we progress forward.
I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to work closely with our readers, authors, and the wider scientific community. In doing so, I aim to propel the journal’ s mission forward and actively participate in fostering significant discussions within these crucial areas of study.
Conflicts of Interest
The author declares no conflicts of interest.
Short Biography of Editor-in-Chief
 | Gabriela Topa, PhD (pronouns: she, her, hers), Professor of Social and Organizational Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED). Dr. Topa leads research on organizational behavior, retirement, and workplace well-being. She is now Editor-in-Chief of Merits, an international scientific journal covering all aspects of people and work. Her career at UNED began in 2002 as a postdoctoral researcher. She then advanced to the role of Associate Professor, and in 2020, she was promoted to the position of Full Professor. She is currently a Full professor at UNED’s Department of Social and Organizational Psychology, specializing in organizational justice, workplace bullying, and retirement adjustment, and was a Visiting Professor at the Universities of Bologna and Milan (Italy). In the past, Dr. Topa has been the Coordinator of multiple Master’s Programs at UNED, including Teacher Training, Research in Psychology, and Occupational Risk Prevention. She has served as Secretary of the UNED Associated Center of Madrid (2013) and Vice-Rector for Postgraduate Studies and Research at Menéndez Pelayo International University (2021). Dr. Topa is an expert in quantitative research methods and meta-analysis and a prolific author of scientific articles and books in her field. gtopa@psi.uned.es https://www.uned.es/universidad/docentes/en/psicologia/gabriela-elba-topa-cantisano.html |
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