Terms of Use

By creating a project on OpenResearch.bio, you agree to follow these community guidelines:

1. No experiments on vertebrate animals

   Projects involving mammals (including humans), pets, wildlife, or any vertebrate animals are not allowed. Stick to beginner-friendly, ethical, and accessible biology.

2. Use safe, home-compatible model organisms

   To keep the platform open, educational, and BL1-compatible, we prioritize simple and safe organisms such as:

   • Yeast (Saccharomyces)
   • Baker’s yeast
   • E. coli K-12 (non-pathogenic strains only)
   • C. elegans (the tiny worm often used in basic research)
   • Plant tissues (onions, leaves, algae, etc.)

   If in doubt, choose organisms commonly used in biosafety level 1 (BSL-1) teaching labs.

3. No dangerous, harmful, or illegal activities

   Your project must not involve hazardous chemicals, explosives or fire-based reactions, drugs or controlled substances, genetically modified organisms that require BSL-2 or higher, pathogens, viruses, or anything that can cause disease. When in doubt: keep it simple, safe, and educational.

4. Community transparency

   OpenResearch.bio is a space for sharing curiosity-driven exploration. You agree to describe your project honestly, avoid misleading claims, and document your steps responsibly.

5. You are responsible for your own safety

   OpenResearch.bio provides a place to learn and share, not professional lab certification. Always follow basic safety practices, local regulations, and common sense.

By continuing, you confirm that your project follows these guidelines. Thank you for helping keep OpenResearch.bio safe, welcoming, and open to everyone.