Introducing the CRDG Academic Network
We invite universities, researchers and industry partners to join us in advancing cannabinoid science in the UK.
The Cannabinoid Research and Development (CRDG) has been set up to encourage scientific research in pharmaceutical cannabinoid-related products, with the aim of transforming the UK into the global home for cannabinoid R&D, while boosting the sector’s profile within life sciences.
The group is building a robust research ecosystem, connecting universities, research institutions, investors, businesses and the NHS to facilitate medical advances and broaden access to effective cannabinoid treatments.
As such we are excited to launch the CRDG Academic Network, connecting likeminded researchers together. The network will promote cannabinoid-related science as a cornerstone of the UK life sciences sector, enhancing our already world-leading research infrastructure and fostering an environment of impact, excellence, collaboration and innovation.
Mission Statement
To advance pioneering scientific and medical investigation into cannabinoids and associated pharmaceutical research initiatives in the UK for the benefit of public health.
To foster an ecosystem of UK cannabinoid scientists working across academia and industry, by facilitating and promoting best practices in research excellence, ethics and funding via collaborations.
To create an engaging environment for universities, young academics and early career researchers to pursue cannabinoid-related research. We aim to promote the career path of being a cannabinoid scientist in the UK via awards, conferences and related research activities.
To achieve this mission the Academic Network will engage in a variety of activities designed to support and promote cannabinoid research.
1. Scientific Communication and Analysis
Effective communication is crucial for advancing cannabinoid research. The Academic Network will focus on:
Science Communication: We will promote the latest findings in cannabinoid research through various media, ensuring that both the scientific community and the public are informed about up-to-date developments.
Analysis of UK Higher Education: By analysing the current state of cannabinoid research within UK universities, we aim to identify gaps and opportunities for growth.
2. Promotion of Academic, Regulatory, and Industry Collaboration
Collaboration and insight is key to innovation. The Academic Network will focus on:
Strategic Partnerships: We will facilitate partnerships between academic societies, universities and the industry. These collaborations will promote best practices in research and development and provide assistance with funding.
Promoting Best Practices: By promoting best practices at the intersection of academia, universities and industry, we aim to enhance the quality and impact of cannabinoid research.
3. Hosting Conferences and Events
Bringing together experts and enthusiasts from various fields will drive progress. The Academic Network will focus on:
Annual Research Conferences: We will host regular conferences in the UK focused on cannabinoid science. These events will serve as platforms for sharing knowledge, discussing new research and fostering collaborations.
Events and Outreach: Various events and outreach activities will be organised to engage the community and raise awareness about the importance of cannabinoid research.
4. Promotion of Research Funding and Awards
Supporting researchers to find and apply for funding and recognising achievements is essential for encouraging research and progress. The Academic Network will focus on:
Funding and Research Grant Applications: We will assist university research groups in applying for funding and grants, helping them to secure the resources needed for their projects.
Early-stage Career and Young Scientist Awards: To encourage young scientists, we will offer awards and competitions, such as student essay competitions with monetary prizes. These initiatives aim to inspire undergraduates and postgraduates to pursue research in cannabinoid and related scientific disciplines.
Professor Trevor Jones, co-chair of the CRDG, says: “The UK has an established position as a global leader in life sciences, especially in cannabinoid R&D. Recently, new medicines arising from such R&D have been approved by regulatory agencies and are proving important therapeutic agents – while providing a good return on investment for innovator companies and their investors.
“The country now needs to build on this success and create an environment that fosters cannabinoid R&D in order to become the leading player in this important field.”
Professor Sagnik Bhattacharyya, Deputy Head of the Department of Psychosis Studies at King’s College London, says: “The CRDG Academic Network is an excellent initiative which can bring together diverse academic and research groups who are interested in cannabinoid research.
“This is a particularly timely initiative that can help ensure the full potential of cannabinoids for health are realised and that the UK life sciences sector benefits more broadly. It will not only foster a step change in academic and academic-industry collaboration, but will also help kickstart new streams of translational research that can have a positive impact on human health.”
The launch of the Academic Network is a significant phase for cannabinoid research in the UK. We invite universities, researchers and industry partners to join us in this journey towards advancing cannabinoid science in the UK.
For more information about the CRDG Academic Network, including details about getting involved, please contact: Zack Bellman at zack@crdg.uk.