Michael Small Takes Helm as New Editor-in-Chief for Chaos Journal by AIP Publishing

AIP Publishing Welcomes Michael Small as Editor-in-Chief of Chaos

In a recent announcement, AIP Publishing has appointed Michael Small, an esteemed Professor of Applied Mathematics from The University of Western Australia, to the position of Editor-in-Chief of the journal Chaos, beginning January 1, 2026. This significant leadership change marks a new chapter for the journal, which is widely recognized for its contributions to the fields of nonlinear science and complex systems.

Dr. Small has been with Chaos for some time, serving as the Deputy Editor before this promotion. His expertise and research in complex systems, especially nonlinear dynamics and data-driven modeling, have established him as a prominent figure in the scientific community. Moreover, he leads the UWA Data Institute and occupies the CSIRO–UWA Chair of Complex Systems, a testament to his dedication and impact in these areas. His research portfolio is impressive, encompassing topics like infectious disease modeling, urban design, bioinformatics, and financial engineering, and he has secured over $42 million AUD in competitive funding to advance his work.

Penelope Lewis, Chief Publishing Officer at AIP Publishing, expressed excitement over Dr. Small's appointment, stating, "Dr. Small is widely respected in the nonlinear dynamics community for both the depth of his scholarship and his commitment to advancing the field. His vision for the journal aligns with AIP Publishing's mission and our focus on supporting high-quality, rigorous research and strengthening the communities we serve."

As the new Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Small is poised to enhance the journal’s focus on pivotal areas such as reservoir computing and network science. He aims to increase the commissioning of impactful review and perspective articles and intends to streamline editorial processes to ensure efficiency and fairness. Additionally, Dr. Small is committed to cultivating a more diverse and engaged global editorial board, which is critical for the future of the journal.

Dr. Small articulated his enthusiasm regarding the new role: "I am honored to lead Chaos at such an exciting moment for the field. The journal has long been a home for groundbreaking research in nonlinear science, and I look forward to strengthening its role as a premier venue for methodological innovation, interdisciplinary discovery, and real-world application. Chaos will continue to build on its excellent position in the nonlinear science community, placing our authors, readers, and reviewers at the center of everything we do."

The journal Chaos covers a wide range of research, including theoretical, experimental, and computational studies within the realms of nonlinear dynamics and complex systems, pertinent across physics, mathematics, engineering, biology, and related disciplines.

With Dr. Small at the helm, readers and contributors can anticipate a vibrant and evolving platform that will not only showcase cutting-edge research but also address emerging scientific challenges in the dynamic and interrelated fields of nonlinear dynamics.

For AIP Publishing, this appointment underscores the ongoing commitment to advancing the physical sciences and enhancing the quality of scholarly communication in the academic community. As a subsidiary of the American Institute of Physics, AIP Publishing continues to break down barriers and support the essential research that propels progress in various scientific frontiers.