Based in Perthshire, Scotland, Merle has the PG Dip Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies from the University of Strathclyde.

In addition to family history research she is also currently co-ordinator with the McManus168 project (https://mcmanus168.org.uk/), working with volunteers who are researching the original subscribers to The Albert Institute (now The McManus, Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum) which was established in 1867 as the first civic museum and art gallery in Dundee.