Publication license guidelines: Editing your figure outside of BioRender

We understand that you may need to further edit your BioRender figures using other programs. If you plan to edit and publish figures outside of BioRender, you will still need a publication license for the icons used in your figure. This article outlines the process of exporting a publication license and the subscription requirements for obtaining one.

Options for exporting a publication license

If you've modified your BioRender figure externally (e.g., in PowerPoint or Illustrator), you can still obtain a publication license by following these steps:

1. Upload your final figure back into BioRender.

   • Read: Uploading an image into BioRender for step-by-step instructions.

2. (Optional) Combine multiple figures into one file.

   • If you're working with several figures, you can add them to a multi-slide file and export a single publication license for the group. Learn more: Using BioRender Slides (👑 Premium only)

3. Export the figure or slide deck.

   • Generate a publication license covering the uploaded illustration(s).

Subscription and citation requirements

A paid Premium plan is required to access publishing rights for any figure. If you export your figures while on a paid plan, you retain the right to publish them even if you later downgrade. However, new figures created or exported after downgrading will not include publication rights unless exported under a renewed Premium subscription.

All BioRender icons and figures must be cited, even if they were edited using different software. All publication licenses include a unique figure citation that can be used to cite your figure.

If you prefer, the citation can be modified to “Figure(s) partially created in BioRender. Last Name, First Initial. (Year) [figure URL]”.

Determining the appropriate license type

The type of publication you are submitting to determines the appropriate license. Ensure you select the correct license type based on your publishing needs:

• How to download a publication license for open-access resources: License for publicly available publications.
• How to download a publication license for closed-access resources: License for restricted or subscription-based publications.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a publication license if I don't edit my figure outside of BioRender?

• Yes, all BioRender figures that will be published will need publication licenses. All premium plans (except the Undergraduate Plan) include publishing rights.

Can I obtain a publication license with a free trial account?

• No, a publication license is only available with a paid Premium plan. Free trials do not include publishing rights.

What are the differences between open-access and closed-access publication licenses

• Open-access licenses apply to publicly available journals and resources, while closed-access licenses are required for restricted or commercial publications.

What’s next

🎥 Watch: Webinar – Top 3 Tips for Publication Figures. Learn actionable tips and techniques for designing clear science figures for your publications/manuscripts. Watch now on Learning Hub ↗

Need help?

1. Email: support@biorender.com
2. Live Chat: Available by clicking on the "Help" bubble in the app on the bottom right-hand corner.