Research Associate Professor
Research Scientist
Psychology
Public Health
Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo, State University of New York
UB Downtown Gateway
77 Goodell St.
Suite 420
Buffalo, NY 14203
Medical Cannabis; novel and emerging cannabinoids; therapeutic use of psychedelics; integration of Cannabis and psychedelics with healthcare and health professions education
Cannabis has been used medically for thousands of years. Following the State-level establishment of medical Cannabis programs, we began a research program on the medicinal use of Cannabis and its relationship with mainstream health care systems. After the 2018 Farm Bill, a wide variety of cannabinoids became available on commercial markets. As Cannabis legalization continues to expand, it is crucial for harm reduction efforts to recognize that cannabis differs significantly from other substances like tobacco and alcohol. We conducted the first large surveys of individuals using products such as delta-8-THC and THC-O-acetate. Legal, scientific, and social landscapes for psychedelics are changing rapidly and personal use of psychedelics is increasing. It is critical to conduct research informing psychedelic policies and practices to maximize benefits and minimize costs, risks, and harms to individuals and society.