MEDICAL CANNABIS SCIENCE PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO

Overview: There are various work samples throughout this portfolio. The included samples come from discussion board contributions, mock patient scenarios, short-answer prompts, concept maps, and presentations. These were selected as representatives of both the core curriculum of the MCST program and my chosen electives. This portfolio showcases a diverse range of carefully selected samples that demonstrate my accomplishments during my pursuit of this degree. These samples reflect my dedication to preparing for a potential future career path in cannabis, highlighting my ability to achieve program learning outcomes and make a meaningful impact in the evolving landscape of cannabis therapeutics. These only represent a small sample of the totality of the work completed in the MCST program but serve as a representative sample of how I achieved the following program learning outcomes:

Apply knowledge of pharmacology, pathophysiology, clinical assessment, and traditional management strategies of pain and other physical symptoms to identify appropriate candidates for medical cannabis therapy.

Apply concepts of pharmacology, pharmacognosy, pharmaceutics, and pharmacokinetics to determine appropriate cannabis dosing, dosage forms, and routes of administration for optimal treatment.

Develop monitoring plans to determine the effectiveness of medical cannabis therapy and to detect adverse effects of medical cannabis use.

Apply concepts of analytical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacognosy, and pharmaceutics to assure safe and effective design, development, and manufacture of medical cannabis products.

Apply knowledge of analytical toxicology methods to identify, quantify, and interpret results related to cannabinoid use and misuse.

Describe the negative physical, psychiatric, and psychosocial effects of cannabis on individuals and populations.

Participate in health policy decision-making processes by evaluating primary literature to assist policymakers and prescribers in making well-informed decisions about medical cannabis therapy.

Apply knowledge of historical and current laws, regulations, and policies to identify, analyze, and advocate for emerging issues related to medical cannabis and health.

Identify areas for future research related to science, health effects, and medical cannabis policy, and describe the challenges associated with such research.

Demonstrate a commitment to excellence through continuing professional development and the education and training of patients, healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and other relevant stakeholders.

CONTENTS

Medical Cannabis Roles Concept Map

International Cannabis Law Infographic

Abuse Liabilities of THC and CBD Essay

Cannabis Dosing and Administration Presentation

Final E-Poster Presentation (Capstone)

Effective Action Model

Intellectual Property (IP) Assignment

Genetics and Genomics Presentation

Historical and Cultural Perspectives Worksheet

Research & Projects

Work Sample 1

Medical Cannabis Roles Concept Map

Context

In the introductory course, MCST 601, we learned about the cultural history of medical cannabis use, explored how federal law and policy relating to medical and non-medical use of cannabis has evolved in the United States, and discussed ethical issues related to medical cannabis. Additionally, students learned how to identify credible sources of online information related to medical cannabis. We created a concept map that illustrates the understanding of the different jobs and professional roles in the medical cannabis industry and how they are related. The instructions were as follows: “You can hand draw this map or do this electronically. Where are you on this map? (It's okay if you are "off the map" at this point--just explain where you might like to go.)”

Objective

Describe the history of medical cannabis use, and discuss how historical views and policies related to cannabis affect present-day medical cannabis culture and policy.

Demonstrate a commitment to excellence through continuing professional development and the education and training of patients, healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and other relevant stakeholders.

Description

This work sample showcases a concept map illustrating the diverse professional roles within the medical cannabis industry. I deliberately chose a more intricate approach, constructing the map manually to showcase my proficiency in Photoshop while emphasizing the complexity of the industry and the multitude of roles involved in delivering high-quality products to patients. It was important for me to highlight the equal importance of all these roles, as each contributes significantly to the industry's success. Within the concept map, I positioned myself as an entrepreneur. As someone who is still exploring various paths within the industry, I am continually expanding my knowledge and gaining a broader perspective on potential career trajectories. With a background in business, I approach cannabis from an operational standpoint. Additionally, my recent experiences with home cultivation have sparked my interest in cultivation techniques and cannabis product photography, as photography is a personal hobby of mine. Regardless of the direction I ultimately choose or the mentors I learn from, my ultimate goal is to establish my own business in the industry, driven by my passion and the desire to make a meaningful impact.

Work Sample 2

International Cannabis Law Infographic

Context

In the course MCST 601, we delved into an exploration of the varying regulations surrounding cannabis in different states across the United States. The module focused on comparing and contrasting the comprehensive medical cannabis policies implemented in 34 states, along with the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. We were encouraged to examine the differences in implementation and regulation among these states, as well as to compare the regulations of other countries to the federal cannabis laws in the United States. As part of the coursework, we were tasked with creating a visual aid that depicts the cannabis laws in another country and highlights the similarities or differences with the federal US policies. The visual aid had to include a description of both the similarities and differences, or state if none exist and should be supported by at least one appropriately cited reference.

Objectives

Apply knowledge of historical and current laws, regulations, and policies to identify, analyze, and advocate for emerging issues related to medical cannabis and health.

Description

For this assignment, I chose to create an animated infographic comparing the cannabis laws and regulations of Thailand and the United States. I was particularly intrigued by Thailand's recent changes in cannabis laws, which had garnered significant attention, especially from tourists. As I delved into the topic, I noticed several similarities between the two countries in terms of regulations surrounding medical cannabis and the ambiguity surrounding adult use. This led me to believe that there were valuable lessons the United States could learn from Thailand, considering that Thailand had already decriminalized cannabis nationwide, whereas in the United States, its legal status remains a state-by-state matter due to federal regulations. In Thailand, cannabis is categorized as a category 5 substance, while at the time of the assignment, cannabis in the United States was still classified as a Schedule I substance, rendering it federally illegal. By highlighting both the similarities and differences between the two countries, my animated infographic aimed to shed light on the potential insights that could be gained from Thailand's approach to cannabis regulation.

Country Comparison 5.1.pdf

Work Sample 3

Abuse Liabilities of THC and CBD Essay

Context

The course MCST 602, Principles of Drug Action and Cannabinoid Pharmacology, focused on providing me with a comprehensive exploration of the principles underlying the actions of drugs, with a specific emphasis on cannabinoids. Throughout the course, I gained a deep understanding of the pharmacological properties of cannabinoids, their mechanisms of action, and their effects on the human body. One of the assignments in this course was an essay where I examined and analyzed the intended and adverse effects of cannabis. I provided a comprehensive list of these effects and offered a detailed description of the mechanisms through which they occurred. Additionally, another assignment in the course involved comparing and contrasting the abuse liabilities of THC and CBD, specifically considering the existing research on their abuse potential in comparison to opioids. In my essay, I supported my arguments with at least two references, ensuring the validity and credibility of my responses.

Objectives

Apply knowledge of analytical toxicology methods to identify, quantify, and interpret results related to cannabinoid use and misuse.

Apply concepts of analytical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacognosy, and pharmaceutics to assure safe and effective design, development, and manufacture of medical cannabis products.

Description

In my essay, I discussed the abuse liabilities of THC and CBD, examining existing research on the subject. Throughout the essay, I presented evidence and findings that supported the notion of CBD having lower abuse liability compared to THC. The conclusion of my essay highlighted key points, stating that studies measuring abuse liability found cannabis and cannabis-derived products (CDP) to generate subjective effects associated with intoxication and positive drug ratings, with the strength of these effects being dose-dependent. I emphasized that current research indicates CBD has low toxicity and is well tolerated with a good safety profile in clinical trials, further supporting its lower abuse potential compared to THC. Furthermore, I mentioned that CBD does not produce the typical effects seen with cannabinoids such as THC, suggesting a reduced likelihood of diversion from patients due to its lower abuse potential. Overall, my rationale for discussing the abuse liabilities of THC and CBD was to provide an analysis that highlights the potential differences in their abuse potential and the implications for their use in medical contexts.

Assigmnet 7.1.docx

Work Sample 4

Cannabis Dosing and Administration Presentation

Context

The course for which I created this sample was MCST 604, The Clinical Effects of Medical Cannabis. Throughout the course, I gained a comprehensive understanding of medical cannabis, including its therapeutic uses, dosing strategies, and treatment considerations. The objective was to explore how different variables impact treatment options for patients and to learn about the various dosing strategies and administration options available. Additionally, we examined the similarities and differences in dosing approaches between medical cannabis and allopathic medicine. One of the assignments in the course required me to create a PowerPoint presentation discussing the similarities and differences in dosing between medical cannabis and allopathic medicine. I was also tasked with identifying the research or data needed to clarify best practices for medical cannabis dosing and exploring how to evaluate clinical practice guidelines and expert opinions to ensure sound treatment decisions. To support my arguments, I included references to credible sources throughout the presentation.

Objectives

Apply concepts of pharmacology, pharmacognosy, pharmaceutics, and pharmacokinetics to determine appropriate cannabis dosing, dosage forms, and routes of administration for optimal treatment.

Description

The purpose of my presentation was to provide a thorough exploration of cannabis dosing and administration. The agenda of the PowerPoint was designed to cover key aspects systematically. I began with an introduction to establish a foundation for understanding cannabis dosing, followed by a comparison of medical cannabis dosing with allopathic medicine. Two tables from MacCallum & Russo's (2018) reading were included to break down cannabis modes of administration and delivery methods. The presentation also emphasized the importance of research and data in clarifying best practices for medical cannabis dosing. In addressing the scenario where evidence is lacking, I discussed the evaluation of clinical practice guidelines and expert opinions. Lastly, I provided a concise summary of the presentation's main points. This presentation aimed to equip the audience with a comprehensive understanding of cannabis dosing and administration, enabling informed decision-making in clinical practice.

Work Sample 5

Final E-Poster Presentation (Capstone)

Context

The courses, MCST 614 and 615, for which I created this sample are part of a larger Capstone project focused on Instructional Design in the field of medical cannabis education. The objective of the course was to develop competency in educating various stakeholders about the science, therapeutics, and policies of medical cannabis. As part of the Capstone project, we were required to identify a client, such as an organization or business, and collaborate with them to develop an educational or training program that addressed a specific knowledge gap. The format of the educational product was determined through a combination of client input, audience analysis, and research on the chosen topic. The Eposter assignment served as a scientific research summary-style poster, capturing the essence of our Capstone project and highlighting the process, deliverables, and lessons learned throughout our Instructional Design journey. The Eposter was designed to be displayed in a virtual poster session using the VoiceThread platform, providing an opportunity for us to showcase our work and engage in discussions with peers and instructors.

Objectives

Demonstrate a commitment to excellence through continuing professional development and the education and training of patients, healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and other relevant stakeholders.

Description

In this Instructional Design Capstone project, I developed comprehensive training materials to bridge the knowledge gap among budtenders in the cannabis industry workforce. The objective was to equip them with expertise in areas such as the endocannabinoid system, dosing, administration, and responsible cannabis consumption. By offering online modules with a self-paced format, including lectures, visuals, and assessments, the project provided flexible and accessible learning. Interactive elements like discussion boards fostered engagement and community. The goal was to empower budtenders to deliver safe, patient-centered care and contribute to a knowledgeable and responsible cannabis industry workforce

Work Sample 6

Effective Action Model

Context

The course for which I created the sample was MCST 616, Public Health and Patient Advocacy. In this course, I delve into the principles and practices of public health advocacy, focusing on medical cannabis. The main goal of the course was to equip us, as students, with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively advocate for improved access, policies, and outcomes in the medical cannabis field. Throughout the course, we explored various advocacy strategies, ethical considerations, and the pivotal role that public health plays in patient advocacy. For one of our assignments, we were tasked with developing a focused personal advocacy strategy, using the Effective Action Model for Strategic Planning template, to address a specific issue or aspect related to medical cannabis. This assignment provided a valuable opportunity to apply our learning to real-world scenarios, enabling us to develop actionable plans aimed at driving positive change within the public health and patient advocacy landscape surrounding medical cannabis.

Objectives

Apply knowledge of historical and current laws, regulations, and policies to identify, analyze, and advocate for emerging issues related to medical cannabis and health.

Identify areas for future research related to science, health effects, and medical cannabis policy, and describe the challenges associated with such research.

Demonstrate a commitment to excellence through continuing professional development and the education and training of patients, healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and other relevant stakeholders.

Description

In this assignment, I developed an Effective Action Model to address barriers and improve access to medical cannabis for patients in need. The objective was to tackle challenges such as legal restrictions, affordability, and stigma that hindered patients' ability to obtain medical cannabis. The strategic plan aimed to expand medical cannabis research and education, promoting a better understanding of its potential benefits and encouraging evidence-based medicine (EBM) use in healthcare. By addressing these barriers and enhancing accessibility, the assignment aimed to ensure that patients who could benefit from medical cannabis had safe and legal access to it, ultimately improving patient outcomes and supporting informed decision-making in healthcare.

Assignment 3.1.docx

Work Sample 7

Intellectual Property (IP) Assignment

Context

The worksheet was designed as part of our course, 610: State and Federal Cannabis Laws and Policies. In this course, I had the opportunity to delve into the intricate legal and policy frameworks surrounding cannabis at both the state and federal levels. The worksheet focused on three essential areas: state product safety laws, public health challenges associated with edible cannabis products, and intellectual property law within the cannabis industry. Throughout the course, we explored state regulations governing packaging, labeling, and product testing, specifically emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of cannabis products. Additionally, we analyzed state laws aimed at addressing the unique public health risks posed by edible cannabis products. Furthermore, the worksheet provided an opportunity to apply our understanding of intellectual property law concepts, including trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets, in the context of the cannabis industry. The assignment within the worksheet required us to respond to two scenarios: advising a small cannabis company on potential intellectual property avenues to safeguard their newly discovered cannabinoid and providing testimony on the adoption of THC limits for edible cannabis products, while recommending additional safety measures. This worksheet served as a means to assess our comprehension of the course material and our ability to apply it to real-world situations, ultimately enhancing our understanding of the complex legal and policy landscape surrounding cannabis.

Objectives

Apply knowledge of historical and current laws, regulations, and policies to identify, analyze, and advocate for emerging issues related to medical cannabis and health.

Identify areas for future research related to science, health effects, and medical cannabis policy, and describe the challenges associated with such research.

Demonstrate a commitment to excellence through continuing professional development and the education and training of patients, healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and other relevant stakeholders.

Description

In the worksheet, I provided two potential ways for the company to protect their discoveries. One suggestion was applying for a plant patent to secure exclusive rights to their unique cannabis strain producing the newly discovered cannabinoid. This would prevent unauthorized use or reproduction. The second recommendation involved adopting a trade secrets approach, treating the specific extraction and purification process as valuable confidential information. By implementing strict security measures, such as non-disclosure agreements and limited access, the company could safeguard their techniques. In terms of THC limits for edible cannabis products, I expressed my opposition, stating that diverse consumer needs should be considered. Instead, I proposed additional safety measures, including standardized bite-size pieces, individual packaging, clear labeling of high THC concentrations, comprehensive directions, restricted access, and Terms & Conditions acknowledgment. These measures aim to balance consumer preferences, informed decision-making, and product safety within the cannabis industry.

MCST 610 Assignment 7.1.docx

Work Sample 8

Genetics and Genomics Presentation

Context

The course for which I created the sample was MCST 608, which focused on Cannabis Genomics and Pharmacognosy. The assignment required me to prepare a slide deck presentation for the Rotary Club that aligned with the course learning outcome and module learning objectives. The course aimed to review basic definitions and concepts of genetics, as well as current experimental techniques used to study the genome of the cannabis plant. The specific module learning objectives were to introduce the history of genetics and describe the various experimental methods applicable to medical cannabis. With these instructions in mind, I developed a presentation that provided an overview of genetics, highlighted key historical milestones, and discussed relevant experimental techniques within the context of studying the cannabis plant's genome. The presentation aimed to educate the audience on these important topics and promote a deeper understanding of genetics and genomics in the field of cannabis research.

Objectives

Apply concepts of analytical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacognosy, and pharmaceutics to assure safe and effective design, development, and manufacture of medical cannabis products.

Description

For this assignment, I created a slide deck presentation for the Rotary Club. The objective was to educate the audience, who had limited knowledge of genetics and genomics, about these topics within the context of cannabis. The presentation consisted of 5-10 slides that covered basic genetic concepts and current experimental techniques used in studying the cannabis plant's genome. By providing clear explanations of terms such as alleles, phenotypes, genotypes, and genes, along with an overview of gene expression, the presentation aimed to enhance understanding. Additionally, I highlighted the importance of studying genetics in cannabis research, including applications like DNA sequencing for lineage tracing and early detection of genetic alterations leading to disease states. The inclusion of plant genetics, such as genetically modified crops, added a broader perspective. The rationale behind the presentation was to foster knowledge and awareness of genetics and genomics within the context of cannabis, while showcasing their relevance in the field of pharmacognosy.

Assignment 5.1.pptx

Work Sample 9

Historical and Cultural Perspectives Worksheet

Context

In the course MCST 618: Medical Psychedelic Science and Therapeutics, I created a sample that focused on the legal landscape and cultural perspectives surrounding psychedelics in the United States. Throughout this module, I introduced students to the historical context, current regulations, and evolving perspectives that shape the legal landscape of psychedelics. We explored the historical roots of psychedelic use in ancient civilizations and examined the effects of modern interest in psychedelics on indigenous communities. Furthermore, we delved into the history of psychedelic research, from pioneering studies in the mid-20th century to the subsequent era of prohibition, and explored various research methodologies used in contemporary psychedelic studies. The module also addressed ethical challenges associated with psychedelic research, including informed consent, participant well-being, and potential bias. As part of the assignment, students were required to download and complete a reflective worksheet that prompted us to consider the historical and cultural perspectives discussed within the module. The course's objective was to provide us with an in-depth understanding of the legal, cultural, and ethical dimensions of psychedelics, fostering critical thinking and stimulating informed discussions on this subject matter.

Objectives

Apply knowledge of historical and current laws, regulations, and policies to identify, analyze, and advocate for emerging issues related to medical cannabis and health.

Identify areas for future research related to science, health effects, and medical cannabis policy, and describe the challenges associated with such research.

Description

The assignment focuses on two important aspects of psychedelic medicine: communication of research findings and the integration of Indigenous ethical principles. Responsible communication involves addressing stigma, misconceptions, and over-enthusiasm by following a research checklist that emphasizes transparency, accuracy, and balance. Integrating Indigenous ethical principles requires acknowledging and incorporating traditional Indigenous knowledge, promoting cultural humility, and developing sustainable practices. This should be done through collaborative partnerships, consent processes, benefit-sharing, and Indigenous-led research and practice centers, while being mindful of the risks of appropriation and exploitation. Overall, these approaches aim to ensure respectful, informed, and equitable practices in the field of psychedelic medicine.

MCST 618 Assignment 1.1.docx

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