Special Terms and Conditions for Technical Analysis/Destructive Sampling
The Paleontological Research Institution (PRI) has the responsibility to preserve the collections and specimens under its care and simultaneously to make these collections available for scientific study. As technical analysis or sampling is sometimes necessary to address scientifically important questions, PRI is receptive to requests for conscientious, technical analysis/destructive sampling of its specimens, which enhances their scientific value. Therefore, to maintain the long-term research and educational value of our collections, and to ensure that finite and often irreplaceable materials are not needlessly depleted, PRI stipulates the following terms and conditions on technical analyses and destructive sampling.
1. Specimens requested for destructive sampling should, where possible, supplement, not replace, material obtained from other sources such as primary field sampling. Requests for destructive sampling must justify, with compelling reasons, why the destructive use of specimens reposited at PRI is necessary. Individuals making a request must also demonstrate that they have an appropriate level of competence and experience with the requested analysis/sampling procedures and that the requested procedure will be effective in generating useable data. It is understood that the researcher intends to publish their findings in a peerreviewed academic journal or otherwise make the data accessible to the public in a timely fashion.
2. In general, requests are granted only for non-type material from PRI’s Taxonomic and Stratigraphic collections, including sorted and unsorted bulk material. Type specimens, figured specimens, and other rare specimens will only be allowed to be sampled under unique circumstances. Requested samples that are underrepresented in terms of taxonomy, geography, or geologic age may also be restricted.
3. Researchers who would like to perform a technical analysis, destructively or invasively sample, or perform conservation treatments must be Approved Borrowers or Approved Student Borrowers and must first submit a Technical Analysis/Destructive Sampling Request form to PRI Collections. Allow a minimum of two weeks for processing of the request. More time may be needed if the request includes uncataloged material. PRI reserves the right to limit or deny all requests for technical analysis or destructive sampling.
4. If the request is granted, additional terms and conditions for particular materials may be marked on the loan paperwork or in separate written communications.
5. Except as agreed upon beforehand, the researcher will be responsible for all costs associated with the technical analysis/destructive sampling procedure.
6. All unused portions, remnants, and resulting products must be returned to PRI by the end of the loan period or by another previously agreed upon date. Remnants that must be returned to PRI may include (but are not limited to): SEM stubs, polished sections, unconsumed sample powders, and molds or casts.
7. When returning materials requested for technical analysis/destructive sampling, any parts removed from the specimen, along with any preparations made from the specimen and any other remnant materials should be labeled with the PRI catalog number of the parent specimen and any other relevant information, so that the original specimen and any remnants can be reconciled. A summary of the technical analysis/ destructive sampling performed on the specimen(s) should also be included.
8. Failure to abide by the terms and conditions listed here will be grounds for denying future requests.
Approved by the Paleontological Research Institution Board of Trustees May 2017.
Special Term & Conditions for Technical Analysis/Destructive Sampling | PDF
Technical Analysis/Destructive Sampling Request Form | PDF