Research Synthesis Methods is a multidisciplinary peer reviewed journal devoted to the development and dissemination of methods for designing, conducting, analyzing, interpreting, reporting, and applying systematic research synthesis. It aims to facilitate the creation and exchange of knowledge about research synthesis methods that is of general interest or utility for the many fields and disciplines in which research synthesis is undertaken or used. Research synthesis is common in the health and social sciences and many of the methods explored in this journal will apply directly to these disciplines and to their practitioners. The journals aim is to cross-fertilize these fields as well as others so as to enrich the methods of research synthesis in all scientific disciplines.