8 Jobs You Can Get with a Degree in Cannabis

A bioanalytical chemist in the cannabis field specializes in analyzing and testing cannabis samples to determine their composition, quality, and safety, playing a vital role in supporting consumer protection and regulatory compliance. These scientists use specialized techniques and instruments to examine various compounds present in cannabis, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents.

Their responsibilities include quantifying the concentration of active compounds —that would be THC and CBD—, detecting impurities or contaminants, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their findings contribute to product labeling accuracy, consumer safety, and regulatory compliance in the cannabis industry.
 

Last but not least, bioanalytical chemists also participate in research and development activities related to cannabis-based products. These can include new formulations, delivery systems, and extraction techniques. They also collaborate with other professionals, such as cultivators, product developers, and quality assurance teams to ensure the overall quality and consistency of cannabis products.

A cannabis extraction manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the extraction process in a cannabis production facility.  They also oversee the entire extraction process, ensuring optimal efficiency and safety. They manage equipment, develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), maintain quality control, train staff, and contribute to research and development efforts in the field of cannabis extraction.

The main role of an extraction manager is to ensure efficient and safe extraction of desirable compounds from cannabis plant material, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds. However, quality is also at the top of their priorities, since they collaborate with quality assurance personnel to establish quality control measures and conduct regular testing of extracted samples. This whole process involves analyzing the potency, purity, and composition of extracted compounds, as well as testing for contaminants and their derivatives.

A clinical chemist in the cannabis field primarily focuses on studying the effects of cannabis on human health. They also conduct research related to therapeutic applications of cannabinoids and other compounds found in cannabis, while playing a crucial role in understanding the biochemical interactions between cannabis and the human body. This also includes evaluating its potential benefits and risks.

In short, this career path requires studying the therapeutic effects, safety, and potential drug interactions of cannabis. Through research, analysis, and patient education, they contribute to advancing the understanding and responsible use of cannabis in medical applications. 

A Field Application Scientist —FAS, for short— in the cannabis field serves as a bridge between scientific expertise and customer support. An FAS primary role is to provide technical assistance, training, and guidance to customers who utilize cannabis-related scientific instruments, technologies, or research products. They are also responsible for understanding the specific needs of customers in the cannabis industry and helping them effectively utilize the tools and products available to them.
 

An interesting responsibility is their collaboration with sales and marketing. They work closely with these teams to provide technical expertise during product launches, exhibitions, and trade shows. They also contribute to the development of marketing materials, scientific content, and application notes, keeping in mind customer’s feedback so they can work together and identify areas for improvement or new product development based on market needs and trends.
 

As you can see, FAS plays a crucial role in ensuring customer satisfaction, promoting the effective use of scientific tools, and advancing research and testing capabilities in the cannabis industry. 

A Food Safety and Quality Assurance Chemist in the cannabis field focuses on ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of cannabis products with regard to food safety standards and regulations. For example, this field requires to stay updated on food safety regulations specific to the cannabis industry and ensure that production processes and products align with these requirements. Chemist who work on this field monitor and interpret regulations from relevant governing bodies and implement necessary procedures to meet compliance standards

Among other responsibilities, their priority is to establish and maintain sturdy quality control measures throughout the production process to guarantee the safety and integrity of cannabis-infused edibles and other consumable products, contributing to a culture of safety and quality throughout the production process. 

A person who specializes in Process Development Scientist in the cannabis field focuses on optimizing and improving manufacturing processes for cannabis products.
 

These scientists work on process optimization, formulation development, scale-up, quality control, cost analysis, and compliance with regulatory standards. Their efforts contribute to efficient and high-quality cannabis production, ensuring consistent and safe products in the market. Other key responsibilities include process optimization, technology transfer, process validation, and many more.

A laboratory manager in the cannabis field oversees the overall operations and management of a laboratory dedicated to cannabis testing and analysis. People who specialize in this play a crucial role in ensuring the laboratory operates efficiently, maintains regulatory compliance, and delivers accurate and reliable results.

Other important tasks consist of coordination within the staff, establishing and maintaining a robust quality assurance program within the laboratory, and other key responsibilities like managing the equipment and inventory,  along with the data management and reporting. 

Gray, K. (2017) Want to study the business of marijuana? There's a degree program for that. USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2017/10/09/marijuana-degree-northern-michigan-university/745964001/