At the OSU Marine and Geology Repository (OSU-MGR) we distribute thousands of sediment and hard rock samples on an annual basis to researchers all over the world. Instructions on how to request these samples from the OSU-MGR and our Sample and Data Policies are detailed below. Please go step-by-step through the following six steps:

Step 1: Decide which samples you wish to study and request. You can find an inventory of samples on our Main OSU collection and NOAA collections pages. Please browse through the online collections, which provide high resolution images and detailed descriptions for many samples, and identify and select the samples that best support your research project. For a description of the various types of samples, please refer to the Sample Types tab above.

Step 2: Statement of Proposed Research: Investigators should compose a letter (PDF format) to request samples. Each request should include a short outline of the intended studies, methods, research objectives and names and addresses of collaborating investigators. It is requested that in the statement special attention is given to the rationale of what to sample, how much, and how many samples are needed. Large requests require justification. Subsequent sample requests during the same investigation should include an additional statement describing progress of the study and stating the need for additional material. Student requests should be submitted through their academic advisor.

Step 3: **Sample Request Form: **Download and complete the Sediment Sample Request Form or Rock Sample Request Form. Please be as detailed as possible, noting any special requests in the comments.

• Note on Size of Sediment Samples. Indicate the minimum sample weight or volume needed. The usual sample size for sediment cores is about 5 cc (about 8-10 grams wet sediment, depending upon sediment type). Larger sample volumes must be justified. Samples from core tops are often restricted to 1-2 cc. Larger sample volumes may be available from box cores, kasten cores or large diameter gravity cores. Since surface sediment material is asked for most frequently, many cores no longer have available surface material. Subsurface samples are usually available.
• Sampling Archive Halves. Rarely, the need arises to sample from the archive half of a sediment core. Please see our archive half policy here.

Step 4: Email your two documents (Statement of Proposed Research and Sample Request Form) to the curators at osu-mgr@oregonstate.edu

• Approval of Request. Sample requests will be reviewed by the OSU-MGR curatorial staff for approval. In cases of conflict of interest, uninvolved faculty are consulted. Principal investigators who obtained materials are consulted if they are still studying requested materials. Conflicts between different investigators requesting the same samples for the same purpose are mediated and resolved by consultation.
• Sampling. The staff of the MGR will do the sampling or you may do it yourself under their supervision. Please contact the curator to schedule sampling visits.
• Sample Shipment. Samples are normally shipped within two or three weeks after approval.

Step 5: If you publish on the samples you request from the OSU-MGR then please acknowledge the OSU-MGR in your manuscript. Include an acknowledgement similar to the following: [Cores are archived at / Samples provided by] Marine and Geology Repository, College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University.

Step 6: Please send us copies (PDF’s), or links to published content that use samples hosted in our collection.

For more information on how to request samples or how to request samples other than sediments and rocks, please contact us via email at osu-mgr@oregonstate.edu.