Yes, you can! Negotiate with your publisher over copyright

Many scientists believe that their contracts with publishers are non-negotiable, especially the part where they handover their copyright to the publisher. But, you can actually discuss the contracts and ask for modifications!

Retaining copyright

We advise you to consider whether you want to retain a part of your copyright so that you can use your work in further research, in education or as a chapter in your PhD thesis.

You can use the 'License to publish' model contract developed by the Dutch Universities to help you with the negotiation.

Choosing a CC license

In some cases, you will publish under a CC license. Retaining copyright is then less of an issue since the CC license grants pre-emptive rights on what readers (including yourself) may do with the materials.

First, make sure you follow the requirements of your project/funding contract. Also, consider following information:

• CC-BY means that others will be allowed to do whatever they want with your publication as long as they cite and refer to it correctly.
• CC-BY-NC means that others will be allowed to do whatever they want with your publication as long as they cite and refer to it correctly. But, they may not use your work for commercial purposes.
• CC-BY-NC-ND is relevant if your work is commercially interesting and/or includes sensitive information or information for future patents. We advise you to contact Value Creation before you sign a contract.
• CC-0 should never be used on your work! Using this license means that you give up all your rights and anyone can use your publication without even crediting you.

Contact

Do you have questions about the model contract or about the forms you received from your publisher? You can read this blog, or contact the legal officers of your Science Group. If you have another question about copyright law, please contact the copyright experts of CIP.