HCA Style Guidelines

The Human Cell Atlas Project is an international collaborative effort that aims to define all human cell types. Although it is a distributed, grassroots project spread across the globe, it is important for the HCA community to convey consistency and our unified ambitions and goals. Any scientist can be involved in the HCA as long as they sign up here and adhere to the ethical, data sharing, and collegial principles. 

To highlight our work towards a common goal, we have developed a unified visual language. The HCA Style Guide is designed to help HCA researchers align with this visual language, with guidance on our logos and font scheme for official HCA documents. When using the style guide, please keep in mind the below acceptable use policy.

 

How to use the HCA logo

There may be cases where HCA scientists, industry partners, or others might like to use the HCA name (“The Human Cell Atlas”), logo, or a variant thereof. Here, we explain the procedure for obtaining permission to use the HCA logo or create a sub-atlas logo.

First, please check the guidelines below to determine if your desired use of the HCA name or logo is appropriate.

Second, please fill out this Google form (link) with a brief description of how you wish to use the logo, with at least one-week advance notice before you plan to use it (in a talk, on the web, etc.). You will receive a logo style guidance kit, and if permission is necessary your case will be evaluated.

 

 

Potentially acceptable uses requiring permission

  • Speaking “for” (representing) or Promoting the HCA in any capacity, if you are NOT already a member of:
    • The Organising Committee
    • An HCA-designated Working Group
    • An approved Biological Network
    • The Data Coordination Platform
    • An HCA-recognised funding organisation that funds HCA projects
  • Creating a new sub-atlas logo 
    • Please note: This logo must be created by the HCA style team to ensure consistency to stylistic standards. We will provide you with files for the web, print, and presentations at no cost as long as the sub-atlas falls within the categories of a country, geographic region, or biological network.

Acceptable uses NOT requiring permission

  • Speaking about the HCA, but not claiming to represent it. 
  • Acknowledging the HCA in an acknowledgements slide.
  • In talks at HCA general and focused meetings
  • Speaking for (representing) the HCA, if you are a member of:
    • The Organising Committee
    • An HCA-designated Working Group
    • A member of an approved Biological Network
    • A member of the Data Coordination Platform
    • An HCA-recognised funding organisation that funds HCA projects
  • Advertising a scientific (non-commercial) conference whose organisers are included in the above-listed groups.

Regardless of which of the above cases applies to you, please keep in mind that you should not modify the HCA logo in any way. If individual/s are interested in creating a new working group, biological network, or logo for whatever reason, please contact (HCAstyle@humancellatlas.com) first. We would also appreciate it if you would contact HCAstyle@humancellatlas.com as a courtesy if you plan to use the logo in one of these ways, except in an acknowledgement slide.

Unacceptable uses

  • To advertise a commercial product, event, or conference, or in commercial press releases without prior arrangement with the Executive Office.
  • To modify the logo from what is provided in the style guidance kit, without prior arrangement with HCAstyle.

Should you have any further questions about logo style and use, please contact HCAstyle@humancellatlas.com.