AIP Publishing launches new “model for open science”
AIP Publishing (AIPP) has announced the launch of AIP Fusion, a services-based business model that “redefines how institutions access and contribute to scientific research”. The new model will be piloted with a group of institutions and library consortia in 2026.
AIPP’s stated mission is to “advance, promote, and serve the physical sciences for the benefit of humanity by breaking barriers to open, fair research”. It says the AIP Fusion model moves beyond the traditional “article economy” to a services-based model that offers unlimited reading and publishing services in AIPP’s full portfolio of 40+ journals under one agreement. By eliminating article processing charges (APCs) for participating institutions, AIP Fusion aims to ensure that researchers “can publish openly, ethically, and without administrative friction – empowering discovery, collaboration, and innovation”.
Penelope Lewis, Chief Publishing Officer at AIP Publishing, said: “Science belongs to everyone. With AIP Fusion, we are breaking down financial and structural barriers to accelerate global progress in the physical sciences. This model reflects our unwavering commitment to transparency, access, inclusivity, and sustainability in scholarly publishing.”
The model was developed through consultation with an international group of libraries and consortia, including leaders from the US, Canada, UK, and EU – regions particularly focused in open science forward policies. This partnership ensured the model reflects these regional priorities and responds to real-world institutional needs.
Curtis Brundy, Dean of University Libraries at University of Massachusetts Amherst, said: “In a time when publishing models can feel opaque, AIP Fusion stands out for its clarity. The pricing formula is straightforward, and the goals are mission-driven. That kind of transparency builds trust.”
AIPP says the model offers:
- Unlimited publishing services: Authors at participating institutions can seamlessly publish in any AIPP or partner journal –including gold OA titles – without APCs or article caps.
- Unlimited reading: Institutions gain access to the entire portfolio of 40+ journals, with archives back to 1999.
- Open access by default: All articles published under AIP Fusion agreements are openly available under CC BY 4.0 for full funder compliance.
- Mission-driven pricing: Fees are based on transparent formulas that integrate an institution’s legacy publishing activity and usage history, with built-in safeguards for price stability.
- Community-driven innovation: Designed hand-in-hand with library and consortia partners to reflect shared values of equity, openness, and sustainability.