With its scientific expertise, Kastamonu University Central Research Laboratory (MERLAB) is establishing a reputation for itself both nationally and regionally. The center, which is distinguished by its strategic objectives and advanced infrastructure, provides R&D solutions in a variety of fields, including academics, industry, the environment, and health.

The Higher Education Executive Board decided to create MERLAB on December 14, 2014, and it has been in operation since 2015. Its objectives are to organize courses, give testing and measurement services to the public and private sectors, and give faculty and postgraduate researchers opportunities for analysis and application. By supporting interdisciplinary initiatives and converting scientific data into technology, the center seeks to enhance the university's research capabilities.

Strong Infrastructure and Expert Staff with Advanced Technology

MERLAB, with a usable area of approximately 5,000 square meters, boasts a strong physical infrastructure with 26 laboratories, meeting rooms, field offices, electrical-mechanical workshops, cold storage facilities, and chemical storage rooms. Along with specialized areas for imaging, chromatography, nuclear research, thermal analysis, spectroscopy, mechanical testing, and biomaterials, they can also produce liquid nitrogen.

The personnel consists of a total of 19 people, including a director, two deputy directors, six unit heads, five specialists, one biologist, one technician, and three administrative staff.

 International Standard Analysis Service

MERLAB conducts measurements in accordance with international norms and standards. Plant, honey, food, water, and soil analyzes are conducted in accordance with the demands of public institutions and the private sector. A 35% discount is applied to analysis services in R&D-focused projects belonging to BAP, TÜBİTAK, and ministries. MERLAB is also strengthening its reliability by expanding its TÜRKAK accreditation scope.

High-Tech Equipment

MERLAB offers versatile analysis opportunities with advanced instruments such as AAS, AFM, GC-MS, HPLC, ICP-OES, LC-MS/MS, SEM, XRD, XRF, and FTIR. These devices serve research in the fields of basic sciences, engineering, and health.

Thanks to the laboratory automation system, all processes from sample acceptance to analysis tracking, invoicing, and proforma operations are carried out digitally, quickly, securely, and transparently. MERLAB, with its extensive service network spanning from academia to the private sector, contributes to regional development through water, food, soil, and honey analyses, primarily in Kastamonu and the Central Black Sea Region. Additionally, support is being provided for the scientific development of agriculture, with information meetings held in districts like Pınarbaşı, in areas such as soil and pathology analysis.

Our Rector, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Topal, stated that MERLAB adds value to both Kastamonu and the region with its technical infrastructure, expert staff, and services offered to international standards. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Topal emphasized that the center continues to provide reliable, high-quality, and fast analysis services through its research activities within the university, as well as its work with the public and private sectors and producers.