AIP Publishing Launches AIP Fusion: Redefining Open Science in the Physical Sciences

AIP Publishing Launches AIP Fusion: A Groundbreaking Model for Open Science

In a significant move for the scientific community, AIP Publishing (AIPP) has announced the pilot launch of AIP Fusion, a new model intended to reshape the way institutions access and contribute to scientific research within the physical sciences sector. The initiative is set to commence in 2026 with a select group of institutions and library consortia, underscoring AIP’s commitment to promoting fair and open scientific practices.

Breaking Down Barriers to Scientific Research

Traditionally, the publishing industry has operated within an 'article economy,' where researchers often face substantial hurdles related to costs and accessibility when attempting to publish their work. However, AIP Fusion is designed to transcend these barriers by offering a services-based model that incorporates unlimited reading and publishing access across AIP’s comprehensive portfolio of over 40 journals, all under one transparent and straightforward agreement.

According to Penelope Lewis, Chief Publishing Officer at AIP Publishing, “Science belongs to everyone.” The intent behind AIP Fusion is to dismantle the financial and structural impediments that have hindered progress in the physical sciences, aiming for increased collaboration and innovation among researchers worldwide. By eliminating article processing charges (APCs), AIP Fusion enables researchers to publish their work freely, encouraging wider dissemination of knowledge and fostering a collaborative research environment.

Designed for Libraries, with Libraries in Mind

A key aspect of the AIP Fusion model is its collaborative development process, which involved extensive discussions with libraries and consortia from the US, Canada, UK, and EU regions that emphasize Open Science initiatives. This engagement ensures that the model is reflective of actual institutional needs and aligns with regional priorities for promoting Open Science.

Curtis Brundy, Dean of University Libraries at University of Massachusetts Amherst, praised the clarity of the AIP Fusion scheme, noting, "In a time when publishing models can feel opaque, AIP Fusion stands out for its transparency. The pricing formula is straightforward and mission-driven, which is essential for building trust among partners and institutions."

Key Features of AIP Fusion

1. Unlimited Publishing Services: Authors affiliated with participating institutions can publish in any AIP or partner journal without facing APCs or limitations on the number of articles submitted.
2. Unlimited Reading Access: Institutions will gain unrestricted access to the entire range of AIP’s journals, including archives dating back to 1999.
3. Open Access by Default: All articles published through AIP Fusion will be openly available under the CC BY 4.0 license, ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
4. Mission-Driven Pricing: The pricing model is based on transparent calculations that consider an institution’s historical publishing activity and usage, with provisions for price stability built-in.
5. Community-Driven Innovation: The model was crafted in collaboration with library and consortia partners, reinforcing shared commitments to equity, openness, and sustainability in publishing.

By focusing on a transparent, services-based approach, AIP Fusion aims to establish a more sustainable research ecosystem driven by integrity rather than mere publication volume. This initiative will play a key role in realizing AIP Publishing’s vision for a scholarly publishing landscape that is inclusive, impactful, and resilient.

A Commitment to Open Science

The launch of AIP Fusion aligns with AIP Publishing’s core values, which revolve around enhancing transparency, accessibility, diversity, and sustainability in the field of scholarly communication. These principles are not merely aspirational; they form the core foundation of this new initiative designed to meet the evolving needs of researchers and institutions.

In conclusion, AIP Fusion represents a significant advancement in the realm of open science, striving to foster an environment where barriers are minimized, and researchers can engage in freely sharing their findings for the greater benefit of humanity. As AIP Publishing leads the charge towards a more inclusive future for scientific inquiry, the research community eagerly anticipates the outcomes of this ambitious pilot program.

For more information about AIP Fusion and to learn more about AIP Publishing’s expansive offerings, visit AIP Publishing.