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.
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
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:
- DEA-Approved Bulk Cannabis Suppliers | NCCIH
- NIDA Drug Supply Program Catalog (2019)
- NIDA Drug Supply Program | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
- NIDA Drug Supply Program (DSP) Ordering Guidelines | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
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:
- USP Standards (pdf)
- Cannabis Analytical Science Program – AOAC International
- Committee D37 on Cannabis – ASTM Cannabis
- NIST Tools for Cannabis Laboratory Quality Assurance – NIST
Best Practice Guidelines
Testing Labs
- ​American Council of Independent Laboratories
- Hemp Analytical Testing Laboratories – Agricultural Marketing Service
Reference Materials
Research Standards Core
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
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.