The first class on a pioneering university medical cannabis course have concluded their first year of studies.
The research programme at the Humboldt-Universitat zu Berlin examines the medical and nutritional uses of cannabis, production and the legal and economic frameworks of the business.
It’s the latest sign that medical cannabis is becoming a part of the mainstream education offering and a positive indication that new industry leaders will emerge in the coming years.
Fifteen students dedicated their year to the technical course, which is still one of very few like it in Europe.
The course was supported by German medical cannabis firm Aurora Europe. Its president Dr Axel Gille said: “We were amazed by the results and the commitment of the scholars.
“They have shown in many ways how one can take a more differentiated view of medical cannabis and how many open questions can still be exposed and researched.
“I am confident that the still prevalent stigma and prejudices surrounding medical cannabis will be overcome by collaborating with young scientists and leading scientific institutions.”
As the medical cannabis industry continues to grow, education institutions are increasingly looking to cash in and attract bright young minds targeting a career in the sector.
The University of Maryland in Baltimore became the first US college to offer a masters degree in medical science cannabis and therapeutics in 2019. Several others have followed suit.
Professor Christian Ulrichs, scientific head of the class, praised the students and said some would go on to continue research in the field.
He said: “I was particularly impressed by the determination of the students who went to great lengths even in the difficult times of the pandemic.
“Personally I am very please about these young, talented students who have started their doctorate here but also at other institutions following this class.
“Some are furthering their research on medical cannabis which is a testament to the success of this programme.
“New research questions have developed out of this themed class which the scientific team will now research with scientific and commercial partners in Germany but also in countries such as Brazil and Mexico.”
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