Dr. Jeff Rawson from the Institute of Cannabis Science

Dr. Jeff Rawson is a chemist, educator, and leading advocate for consumer protection in the cannabis industry. Born in Louisiana and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Jeff earned his undergraduate degree from Bard College in New York’s Hudson Valley, his master’s from Vermont College, and his PhD in chemistry from Duke University. He went on to complete postdoctoral research at Harvard University under the mentorship of world-renowned chemist George Whitesides.

Jeff’s introduction to cannabis began during his college years, but his mission to reform the industry was sparked years later after a negative health experience with a legally purchased distillate vape cartridge. That incident became the catalyst for founding the Institute of Cannabis Science, a nonprofit dedicated to independent testing, public health, and consumer safety.

Through his work, Jeff has exposed misleading THC labeling, substandard product quality, and dangerous gaps in regulation. He combines rigorous scientific expertise with an unwavering commitment to transparency, challenging the industry to meet higher standards for honesty, accountability, and public trust.