Jax State Biology Students Explore Cannabis Science with Sustainable Alabama

01/21/2025


In November, a group of Jacksonville State University (Jax State) biology students joined Dr. Lori Hensley, Dr. Jenna Ridlen, and Dean Tim Lindblom on a site visit to Sustainable Alabama, an industry leader holding a state integrated medical cannabis license. The visit provided students with an in-depth look at the processes behind cannabis cultivation and extraction, highlighting the intersection of biology and medical applications. 

Benjamin Bramlett, chief operations officer of Sustainable Alabama, hosted the group with a comprehensive tour of the facility, followed by a catered lunch-and-learn session. Bramlett detailed the company’s innovative cultivation and extraction techniques and fielded questions from the students, offering insights into the growing field of medical cannabis. 

The trip was the culmination of BY420 Applied Medical Cannabis, one of the first cannabis science microcredential courses offered by Jax State. This cutting-edge course introduces students to the science, industry, and applications of medical cannabis, preparing them for opportunities in this emerging sector. 

Sustainable Alabama, a proud partner of Jax State’s cancer and cannabis research, actively collaborates with the university’s biology department to create valuable internship and educational opportunities for students. 

The following students participated in the site visit: 

  • Taja Mathews 
  • Gemma Littlejohn 
  • Sophia Johnson 
  • Bryan Jones 
  • Jada Burnes 
  • Jacob Gibbons 
  • Kyra Parker 
  • Bryant Turner 
  • Sergio Enrique Guerrero Pacheco 
  • Braxton Masters 
  • Gavin Anchondo 
  • Elizabeth Cortez 
  • Hannah Rollins 
  • Adara Veiga 
  • Ashton Robinson 
  • Alexandra Ginn 
  • Kimberly Flores 
  • Mary Faulkner 
  • Alleigh Ward 
  • Victoria Moses 
  • Logan Pitts 
  • Ian Thomas 
  • Tamara Garner 
  • Ainsley Grimes 
  • Alyssa Pope 

Jax State’s commitment to advancing cannabis science education aligns with its broader mission to prepare students for impactful careers in evolving industries. For more information about the university’s cannabis science microcredentials and ongoing research, visit this link.