Publishing in closed-access resources

📝 Note: This article reflects the classic BioRender canvas. For guidance on the updated experience, check out our article on the new canvas to explore key features and updates in the latest version.

This guide explains how to publish BioRender figures in closed-access journals, where access is typically restricted to subscribers or paying readers. Closed-access publishing can be ideal for certain specialized or high-impact journals with controlled readership.

Important notes on licensing

Only users on an active Premium plan can generate a publication license. To publish, make sure to export a license for each relevant illustration while on a Premium plan, as free trial accounts cannot access this feature.

✨ Good to know: Licenses generated on a paid plan remain valid if you downgrade later, ensuring you retain your publishing rights.

Understanding closed-access vs. open-access publishing

Step-by-step guide: Exporting figures for closed-access publishing

1. Start the export process

• From the Editor: Click "Export" in the top right-hand corner or choose "Download Publication License" under the File menu.

OR

• From the Gallery: Click the three dots in the bottom right of your figure and select "Export".

2. Set up publication license options

• Select export requirements: Choose your preferred export settings and check "I would like a publication license with this export."

3. Prepare license details

• Enter figure information: Add relevant details for your figure, choosing your use case from the drop-down menu. Select "Other" if your specific use isn’t listed. Be sure to Select “No” under “Is it open access?”

4. Generate and download license

• Click "Next" to generate your license, which includes a unique figure URL citation. Be sure to cite your figure using this URL citation.

5. Manage figure access after export

• After exporting, you’ll receive an email with a link to your public figure page, where you can adjust visibility settings. You can also access this page by clicking on the unique figure URL included in your publication license.
• By default, your figure will remain Private. To adjust visibility, click "Edit settings and details."

Changing your access type later on

Made your figure closed-access but want to switch to open-access? No problem—you can always generate a new publication license and update the access settings to match your preferred publishing route. This flexibility ensures your figures stay aligned with your journal's requirements, even if plans change after export.

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 ↗

🌍 Explore: Open-access publishing – Planning for broader reach? Learn how to navigate open-access requirements and maximize your research visibility. Read the open-access publishing guide ↗

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.