When we first formed the idea of the non-profit, finding our scientific advisors was a task that we took our time with and considered very carefully. It’s not easy being on the edge of constantly and rapidly evolving fields while prioritizing lived experience all while staying true to the core values of our mission. We knew that there was much we needed to consider in who we allowed to be in our inner circle guiding us, teaching us, and expanding our perspective on our research objectives. We are so proud and grateful to have the support of Dr. Allison Justice, PhD, The Dank Duchess, Marné Garretson, MPH, and Dr. Paloma Lehfedlt, MD as they have all personally been critically involved in the evolution of the work at NAP in this first year together.

Riley recently ventured to Oakland, CA, for the 20th annual Emerald Cup, and the trip was an adventure from the start. Upon arriving in California, she indulged in an iconic rite of passage—a first-ever IN-N-OUT burger. Despite having visited the state before, this famous fast food chain had somehow eluded her. Unlike her previous trips focused on marine science, this time, Riley’s visit was all about cannabis—and, of course, the burgers!

How does the government influence research priorities and direction? It provides the funding criteria. Read on to learn more about the grant funding process in academic research and a preview of pieces from NAP’s first grant submissions to both the federal government (NIH) and a private foundation (RWJ).

NAP Co-founder Dr. Riley Kirk, PhD is the host of the Bioactive Podcast, a bi-weekly podcast which disseminates the chemistry and pharmacology of natural products covering current news and research surrounding cannabis, psychedelics, toxins, pharmaceuticals & other bioactive substances. We will be airing special NAPTIME episodes where Dr. Miyabe Shields joins as a special guest to discuss the ongoings of the non-profit and current research updates!

The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP) is a fiscally sponsore nonprofit organization focused on studying the real world applications of cannabis and other natural products from the lens of patient and consumer priorities.