Ep 21, Part I: Bridging Science and Community in Cannabis: A Conversation with Dr. Allison Justice and Dr. Riley Kirk
In Part I of this episode, we are joined by Allison Justice, PhD, and Riley Kirk, PhD. Dr. Justice conducts photobiology research and co-founded the Hemp Mine, an innovative hemp farm and product manufacturer. Dr. Kirk is a natural product chemist with a PhD in pharmaceutical sciences. Here, they discuss the importance of connecting people in the cannabis industry, academia, and consumers to further the reach of cannabis education. They also explore the elements of their ongoing research project, “The Science of Smokeability,” which examines nutrient management, importance of maintaining moisture levels, accurate measurements, and the future of cannabis research. Drs. Justice and Kirk presented some of their findings at Cannabis Science Conference in May 2024.
The 2025 YouGov survey data from more than 31,000 US adults show significant support for recreational cannabis legalization, medical use, and federal reclassification.
A lack of standards for cannabis vape devices puts consumers at risk, but several organizations are committed to the research, collaboration, and solutions needed to promote safety and quality in the industry.
Cannabis genetics fundamentally dictate the plant's potential for chemical signatures, including cannabinoid and terpene profiles, and physical traits, such as yield. Cultivators use selective techniques, such as "stacking," to enhance specific compounds. Ultimately, successful cultivation involves balancing superior genetics with environmental "levers" to optimize gene expression and create targeted strains.
It’s that time of year again—the Cannabis Science and Technology (CST) top 10 articles from the previous year. CST published a wide variety of content throughout 2025. Here is just a small snippet of some of the top articles that our readers enjoyed. See if any of your favorites made the list!