MERC Policies

The Mississippi Embayment Research Center (MERC) at the University of Memphis is a newly formed geologic sample repository and multidisciplinary research center dedicated to addressing future science, engineering, and workforce needs in the Mississippi Embayment region. The MERC supports studies in Earth, groundwater, and environmental sciences by housing geological core and sediment samples from the Mississippi Embayment, along with select core donations from private entities deemed valuable for educational and scientific purposes. 

The MERC is actively seeking funding to develop state-of-the-art facilities and acquire advanced instrumentation, including a Geoprobe 8150LS rotary sonic drill rig. This equipment will enable the recovery of relatively undisturbed sediment and groundwater samples from depths of up to 150 meters, supporting critical research on the subsurface architecture of the Mississippi Embayment. This region contains nationally significant resources, including the Mississippi River Valley alluvial aquifer, the Mississippi Embayment aquifer system, heavy mineral sands, and geohazards such as the New Madrid seismic zone (NMSZ). 

The MERC is committed to responsible curation to support scientific research and education. This document outlines policies to ensure equitable use and long-term preservation of these valuable materials.