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Research Standards Core

Advancing reproducibility and quality in cannabis research

The Research Standards Core, led by US Pharmacopeia (USP), supports researchers by providing guidance, best practices, analytical methods, and the other resources related to the quality of cannabis investigational materials.

The Core helps ensure reproducibility of both clinical and non-clinical studies by offering the resources related to characterization of the cannabis chemotypes, their nomenclature, and fit-for-purpose specifications.

A dynamic repository shares quality standards, potency metrics, and regulatory-aligned guidelines. Researchers can also access information about the peer-to-peer shipment of investigational materials and other suppliers. The Core empowers investigators to produce high-quality, reproducible data while navigating complex research challenges in cannabis science.

Please note that the resources we provide on this website are not exhaustive. If you have other suggestions of resources we can add, please email us at info@r3cr.org.

scientists with microscopes working in laboratory

Peer-to-Peer Supply Network

Purpose: The peer-to-peer supply network is conceived to facilitate investigators sharing unique or excess research materials to support collaborative research between institutions.

The peer-to-peer supply network is in addition to and different from the NIDA Drug Supply Program and the DEA-approved cannabis vendors in that it provides a mechanism for the investigators to collaborate to study the reproducibility of research in a variety of settings.

Features:

  • Guidelines for material transfer agreements and legal compliance
  • Platform for posting available materials or requests.
  • Portal for outreach and collaborations between researchers and research material providers
a close-up view of a gloved hand gently tending to a small cannabis plant seedling in a clear plastic cup.

Available Research-Grade Materials

Purpose: Bridge between researchers and material suppliers through .

Features:

  • Directory of cannabis material providers and related groups
  • DEA-approved cannabis vendors
  • Laboratories, standards, and metrics for conducting cannabis research
  • Virtual meetings, panel discussions or webinars with vendors and researchers

Resources:

eco skin care beauty products in laboratory development concept, Natural drug research with organic plants and scientific extraction in glassware, Alternative green herb medicine for body health care

Analytical Methods

Purpose: Provide validated analytical methods and best practice guidelines

Features:

  • Best practices in research design and material characterization.
  • Database of analytical methods that links to existing nationally accepted databases, standards, and protocols for sharing with the research community
  • Monthly updates with newly published methods or revised practices.

Resources:

Best Practice Guidelines

Scientist with clipboard in lab setting

Reference Materials

Testing Labs

The reproducibility and applicability of preclinical and clinical data critically depend on ensuring quality of the investigational cannabis product. FDA Guidance: Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Compounds: Quality Considerations for Clinical Research [2023] notes that the sponsors must submit sufficient information to demonstrate the quality of the investigational drug for each phase of clinical investigation. Major critical quality attributes include tests for identification of the cannabinoid chemotypes, quantitative tests for cannabinoid and terpene content, and limits for contaminants. Testing for these parameters is typically performed by ISO 17025 accredited laboratories using validated analytical methods that are expected to provide accurate results. Considering the controlled status of cannabis, testing labs approved by state regulators provide avenues for characterizing the content of cannabinoids, terpenes and other parameters. Below is a list of the testing labs in some states:

*information could not be independently verified

Disclaimer: The list is not exhaustive, and will be updated with new over information over time.

Research Standards Core

Nandakumara Sarma, RPh, PhD

Nandakumara Sarma, RPh, PhD (PI)

Director of Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicine at US Pharmacopeia

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Dr. Nandakumara (Nandu) Sarma is the Director of Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicines at the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP). With a PhD in pharmacognosy and a background as a pharmacist, Nandu is a global leader in developing quality standards for botanicals. Before joining USP, he conducted specialized research at the National Cancer Institute and the Himalaya Drug Company, focusing on the analysis of active plant components. At R3CR, Nandu provides essential guidance on the standardization and quality of cannabis, helping investigators ensure that cannabis research materials meet the rigorous scientific benchmarks necessary for public health and regulatory acceptance.

Macy Ma, PhD

Macy Ma, PhD

Principal Scientist, Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicines at US Pharmacopeia

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Dr. Cuiying (Macy) Ma is a Senior Principal Scientist at the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), where she specializes in establishing rigorous quality standards for herbal medicines and botanical dietary supplements. With a PhD in natural product chemistry and a MS in analytical chemistry, Macy develops scientific methods used to authenticate botanicals and prevent adulteration. At R3CR, her technical leadership is invaluable for ensuring cannabis research materials meet exacting official standards. Her work provides investigators with the high-level quality control and chemical validation necessary for conducting reproducible, science-based studies.