Publishing quality research is demanding. But after completing the work, another problem can arise: can journals, institutions and other researchers identify you correctly?

Names are not always reliable research identifiers. Several researchers may share the same name. Your name may also appear differently across publications because of initials, spelling variations or a name change.

This does not necessarily mean someone else owns your research. It means your publications may be harder to connect accurately to you.

What is an ORCID iD?

ORCID stands for Open Researcher and Contributor ID. It provides researchers with a unique, permanent 16-digit identifier and an associated online record.

Your ORCID iD remains yours throughout your career – even if you change your institution, research field, country or name. Registration and maintenance are completely free for researchers, according to ORCID’s official guidance.

Think of it as a digital identity for your research career.

Why authors need an ORCID

1. It distinguishes you from other researchers
If another author has the same or a similar name, your ORCID iD helps journals and research systems identify which work belongs to you.

2. It keeps your research connected to you
You can connect your ORCID record to publications, affiliations, funding and other research activities. Some trusted publishers and research organisations can also update your record – with your permission.

3. It follows you throughout your career
Changing universities or countries does not require a new ORCID. The same identifier remains with you, helping to maintain continuity across your research career.

4. It can reduce repetitive data entry
Some manuscript-submission, funding and institutional systems allow researchers to sign in with ORCID or transfer information from their records. This can reduce the need to enter the same details repeatedly.

ORCID does not guarantee publication, citations or international recognition. Its value is accurate identification and better connection between you and your research.

How to create your ORCID in minutes

Creating an ORCID iD is straightforward:

1. Visit orcid.org/register.
2. Enter your name and primary email address.
3. Add a backup email, preferably a personal address you are unlikely to lose.
4. Create a secure password.
5. Add your current employment if you wish – this step is optional.
6. Select your preferred visibility setting.
7. Accept the terms, complete the security check and submit.
8. Open ORCID’s welcome email and verify your address.

ORCID states that the basic registration process should take less than one minute. Building a useful record may take a few additional minutes.

Do not stop after registration

An empty ORCID record offers limited value. Add your current affiliation, preferred name and published works. Review the record periodically and include your ORCID iD when submitting manuscripts.

Also add a backup email. If your university email stops working after you leave the institution, the second address can help you retain access to your account.

Take control of your research identity

Your research deserves to be connected to the correct author. Creating and maintaining an ORCID iD is a simple, free step towards building a clearer and more credible academic profile.

Create yours today at orcid.org/register, update the record and use the same iD throughout your research career.

At The Journal Pro, we believe authors should experience a clear and professionally managed publishing process. Journals can use our platform to organise submissions, author records and editorial workflows more effectively.