Collaboration with Prof Val Curran

The ongoing study aims to develop a better understanding of the effects of different strains of cannabis on the brain, using brain imaging (fMRI) to compare two different strains: one with high THC content and minimal CBD (cannabidiol), and the other with a balanced CBD/THC ratio. THC is responsible for the ‘high’ as well as anxiety, paranoia, and cognitive impairments, while CBD may counter the negative effects of THC.

Our previous research investigated the important aspects of the effects of MDMA on self-compassion, international drug survey about the perceived harms and benefits of psychoactive substances, investigating the links between the creativity and cannabis use and cognitive and subjective effects of mephedrone – novel psychoactive substance.

Research Team and Institution

UCL was the first university institution established in London. Today UCL is the largest higher education institution in London and the largest postgraduate institution in the UK by enrollment and is regarded as one of the leading multidisciplinary research universities in the world.

Valerie Curran got her PhD at the University of London. She is currently a Professor of Psychopharmacology at University College London. She has been principal editor of the journal Psychopharmacology since 2003.