19 May, 2026 – The European Respiratory Society (ERS) has officially launched its search for the next Editor of the ERS Respiratory Channel, a flagship digital initiative designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge clinical research and global medical practice. As the society pivots toward an increasingly digital-first educational landscape, this position represents a pivotal opportunity for a mid-to-senior level clinician to influence how respiratory professionals worldwide consume scientific content.
Main Facts: The Vision for the ERS Respiratory Channel
The ERS Respiratory Channel is far more than a media portal; it is the digital heartbeat of the society’s educational mission. By curating and commissioning a diverse array of content—including high-impact podcasts, instructional videos, and interactive live events—the platform serves as a vital bridge for thousands of clinicians, researchers, and allied health professionals.
The incoming Editor will serve a three-year term spanning 2027–2030. Tasked with managing the editorial direction of the platform, the successful applicant will work in tandem with the ERS’s professional staff to ensure that the content remains not only scientifically rigorous but also highly accessible and engaging.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Strategic Planning: Designing an editorial roadmap that aligns with the society’s long-term educational objectives.
- Content Lifecycle Management: Overseeing the entire process from commissioning to publication across multiple media formats.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Balancing the demands of content contributors while maintaining the high editorial standards synonymous with ERS.
- Innovation: Exploring new formats for knowledge dissemination to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital media landscape.
Chronology: A Roadmap to the 2027 Term
The selection process for this prestigious role is structured to ensure a seamless transition of leadership, allowing for a comprehensive handover period.
- 19 May 2026: Formal call for applications opened.
- 22 June 2026: Application deadline for all prospective candidates.
- September – December 2026: The selected candidate will shadow current Editor, Dr. Sheila Ramjug. This four-month apprenticeship is designed to provide the incoming Editor with an intimate understanding of the channel’s operational intricacies, relationship management, and strategic goals.
- January 2027: Official commencement of the three-year term.
Supporting Data: Why This Role Matters
The rise of digital health literacy has transformed medical education. According to internal ERS audits, there has been a 40% increase in the consumption of on-demand respiratory education over the last three years. The Respiratory Channel stands at the forefront of this shift, providing a scalable solution for clinicians who require high-quality, peer-reviewed content that fits into their busy schedules.
The role requires a commitment of approximately four hours per week. While this may seem modest, the impact is significant. The Editor is responsible for maintaining the momentum of a resource that encompasses the full spectrum of respiratory science, from fundamental physiology to clinical advocacy.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
The ERS is seeking a candidate who balances clinical expertise with a passion for communication. Key requirements include:
- Membership Status: Must be a current, active member of the ERS.
- Clinical Standing: A practitioner at a mid-to-senior career stage with a demonstrated understanding of the respiratory field.
- Digital Fluency: Prior experience or a keen interest in digital content production, storytelling, and audience engagement.
- Leadership & Motivation: The ability to lead teams, influence contributors, and maintain an organized production schedule.
Official Responses: Reflections from the Outgoing Editor
Dr. Sheila Ramjug, the inaugural ERS Respiratory Channel Editor, reflects on the journey of building this platform from the ground up. Her tenure has been defined by the need to balance scientific accuracy with the creative demands of digital media.
"It has been a privilege to be the first official ERS Respiratory Channel Editor," says Dr. Ramjug. "As with all firsts, it has been exciting and challenging. We have had to experiment with what works, refine our production values, and ensure that the respiratory community finds value in every single click."
Dr. Ramjug remains optimistic about the future of the platform, emphasizing that the groundwork laid during her term provides a stable foundation for innovation. "I am confident that I am leaving this role in a great place for the next person. Much work has been undertaken to lay the groundwork for this important resource to go from strength to strength. It has been a hugely interesting project to be part of. Anyone interested in digital output and supporting dynamic resources for the respiratory community should consider applying."
Implications: The Evolution of Medical Communication
The appointment of a new Editor is a strategic move for the ERS. In an era where "infodemic" challenges persist, the role of an authoritative, society-backed digital channel is more critical than ever.
1. The Democratization of Expertise
By leveraging digital formats, the ERS can reach clinicians in resource-limited settings who might not be able to attend international congresses in person. The Editor is effectively the "curator" of global respiratory knowledge, ensuring that the expertise of leading specialists is disseminated effectively to a global audience.
2. Bridging Science and Advocacy
The channel is tasked with not just presenting clinical data, but also showcasing the broader impact of the ERS in advocacy. Whether it is addressing climate change as a driver of respiratory disease or lobbying for improved access to inhalers, the Editor must ensure the channel reflects the society’s role as a moral and scientific leader.
3. Adapting to User Behavior
The next Editor will inherit a landscape where attention spans are shortening and the demand for "micro-learning" is increasing. The ability to pivot toward short-form, high-impact content will be essential. The candidate must not only be a clinician but also a strategist capable of analyzing user metrics to ensure the channel remains relevant to the next generation of respiratory professionals.
How to Apply
The ERS is accepting applications from members who meet the criteria until 22 June 2026. Interested individuals are encouraged to review the full job description available on the ERS website.
Applicants must submit their supporting documentation via email to the society’s administrative office. As this is an internal appointment, only current ERS members are eligible for consideration. This is an invitation to join the leadership of one of the most dynamic projects within the respiratory medicine community—a chance to leave a lasting mark on how the next generation of doctors and researchers learns, connects, and treats patients.
For those considering the application, the message from the society is clear: this is not merely an administrative role, but a creative and strategic opportunity to define the digital future of respiratory medicine. As the ERS continues to grow its global footprint, the Respiratory Channel Editor will be the voice and the vision guiding that expansion.
For further information on all current ERS elections and open positions, members are encouraged to visit the official ERS career portal.
