Acceptable Use Policy

Last Updated: December 09, 2024

At CZI, we are committed to advancing the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence. CZI has developed a platform where biologists and machine learning researchers can more easily access curated, large AI models of biology and the datasets they were built on (the “Platform”). By using the Platform or our website (virtualcellmodels.cziscience.com) to engage with models, data, software, applications, features, tools, documentation, and other content (the “Services”) provided in connection with the Platform, you agree to follow this Acceptable Use Policy and uphold the platform’s purpose for responsible scientific research.

Purpose and Responsible Use

The Services are intended for scientific research, with the goal of driving innovation and advancing our understanding of human biology and disease. In keeping with this goal, responsible use of our Services is required of all users. Please review and validate any outputs generated through our Services, as these outputs may contain inaccuracies or require further scientific validation. The Services should not be used as a substitute for professional advice in regulated fields such as healthcare.

Guidelines for Acceptable Use

You agree to comply with all applicable laws, including those related to privacy, intellectual property, data protection, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. This includes, for example:

  • Sensitive Information: Do not collect, process, generate, store, or infer personal data or health, demographic, biometric, or other sensitive personal data about individuals without obtaining necessary and informed consent as required by law.
  • Intellectual Property: Do not use the Services to infringe on, misappropriate, or violate the intellectual property rights, trade secrets, or other proprietary rights of any third party.

Unauthorized Practices

Do not engage in, facilitate, or promote unauthorized practices or unlicensed activities, particularly those related to regulated professions. This includes, for example:

  • Providing medical, financial, or legal advice without appropriate authorization or licensing.
  • Making automated decisions or recommendations that directly impact individuals in high-risk domains including education, employment, healthcare, housing, financial, government, or legal services without review from a qualified professional in the field.

Prohibited Content and Activities

You may not use the Services to engage in, promote, or facilitate illegal, deceptive, or discriminatory content, including but not limited to:

  • Illegal Content: Activities that promote violence, terrorism, exploitation, or harm to individuals, including abusive content or content that incites violence, harasses, or invades privacy.
  • Deceptive Activities: Generating or distributing content that misleads, deceives, or impersonates others without consent.
  • Hate Speech and Discrimination: Content that discriminates or promotes hatred based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics.

Cybersecurity and Privacy Protections

Protect the integrity of the Services by refraining from:

  • Malicious Code: Creating, distributing, or facilitating malware, viruses, or any code designed to disrupt or compromise systems.
  • Privacy Violations: Attempting to extract personal information from models or datasets, or engaging in any activity that violates individual privacy rights.

Responsible Use for Research and Safety

The Services are for scientific research, and our tools should be used responsibly. Refrain from using the Services for:

  • Dangerous or Harmful Activities:
    • Activities that violate biosafety or biosecurity standards, including the creation, modification, or misuse of biological agents, pathogens, or toxins.
    • Research or development related to biological or chemical weapons or bioterrorism, including activities intended to harm or threaten public health or safety through biological or chemical means.
    • Activities that pose a risk of bodily harm, including military applications, development or handling of firearms or weapons, and regulated substances.
  • Self-Harm: Avoid any applications that could lead to self-harm or promote self-injurious behavior.

Monitoring and Enforcement

CZI reserves the right to monitor use of the Services and investigate and enforce against violations of this Policy. Violations may result in suspension or termination of access to the Services.

We encourage users to report violations of this Policy, including any suspected misuse or illegal activity, by emailing: platform-legal@chanzuckerberg.com.

Changes to this Policy

We may update or modify this Acceptable Use Policy at any time. Users are encouraged to review the policy periodically to stay informed of any changes.