UC Davis Professor Tops Cannabis Scientist Power List 2020

The Cannabis Scientist, a cannabis industry publication, has announced the release of its inaugural Power List, which recognizes twenty of the most influential scientists in two key areas – cannabis analysis and cannabis R&D. UC Davis Professor of Chemistry Don Land tops the cannabis analysis list. 

Of the Power List, The Cannabis Scientist editor Charlotte Barker says, “We want to shout from the rooftops about the diversity, creativity, and talent of scientists working to ensure the safety and efficacy of cannabis and cannabinoid medicines. The cannabis industry is evolving quickly – and its direction will, in part, be guided by the dedicated individuals on the Power List.”

To select the two Top 20s, The Cannabis Scientist held open nominations. Candidates were then whittled down by a panel of independent judges based on their contributions and wider impact on society, business and innovation.

“We make no claims that this is a definitive list – there can be no such thing,” says Barker. “Our goal is to highlight the pioneering work and passion of these leaders in the field – and perhaps inspire the next generation of cannabis scientists!”

While no other UC Davis faculty made the list, other University of California in the cannabis R&D category are:

• (#3) Daniele Piomelli, UCI Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology, and Director of the UCI Center for the Study of Cannabis
• (#10) Ziva Cooper, UCLA Assoc Professor and Research Director, UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences
• (#15) Jeffrey Chen, Executive Director, UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative