Explore the future of cannabis quality assurance, where experts unpack the latest in microbial testing advancements and the push for global standardization to ensure consumer safety and product integrity across medicinal and adult-use markets.

Register Free: https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/cst_w/elevating-quality

Event Overview:

This webinar from Cannabis Science and Technology offers scientists and experts a deep dive into the evolving landscape of microbial testing in cannabis. It will examine the critical need for harmonized international standards to ensure consumer safety and product quality as well as feature a detailed comparison of key technologies for quantitative microbial analysis. This is an essential session for strengthening quality assurance and achieving regulatory alignment across medicinal and adult-use markets.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Identify standards and best practice for microbial testing
• Understand the pros and cons of different methodologies
• Enhance quality assurance through alignment on best practices

Who Should Attend:

• Laboratory personnel
• Microbiologists
• Laboratory directors and key personnel
• Method Developers
• Cultivators

Event Agenda

Monday, December 8^th, 2025

11:00am EST | 8:00am PST | 4:00pm GMT | 5:00pm CET
Introduction
Introduction from Madeline Colli, Editor, Cannabis Science and Technology

11:05am EST | 8:05am PST | 4:05pm GMT | 5:05pm CET
Strengthening Cannabis Testing Integrity: AOAC’s Role in Standards, Methods, and Quality Assurance
Veronica Kays, Sr. Manager, Science Programs (AOAC INTERNATIONAL)

12:00pm EST | 9:00am PST | 5:00pm GMT | 6:00pm CET
Key Technology Comparison for Microbial Quantitative Analysis in Cannabis
Kristofer Marsh, Chief Scientific Officer, Smithers Cannabis Testing Services
John Mills, bioMérieux

Speakers:

Veronica Kays
Sr. Manager, Science Programs
AOAC INTERNATIONAL

Veronica Kays serves as Senior Manager of Science Programs at AOAC INTERNATIONAL, where she leads multiple scientific working groups, including the Cannabis Analytical Science Program (CASP). AOAC is a globally recognized standards-developing organization dedicated to advancing consensus-based analytical methods in food, cannabis, dietary supplements, and related fields.

Veronica brings a strong background in quality control and account management within the dietary supplement and food industries, with experience spanning both brand operations and third-party testing laboratories. She joined AOAC in April 2024, where she continues to drive collaboration among expert stakeholders to ensure scientific rigor and industry-wide standardization.

Kristofer Marsh, Ph.D.
Chief Scientific Officer
Smithers Cannabis Testing Services

Dr. Kristofer Marsh is the Chief Scientific Officer of Smithers Cannabis Testing Services Division, as well the State Director for Smithers’ New York laboratory. He has over 9 years of experience in the Cannabis testing industry spanning operations in 11 U.S. states and is a member of the Cannabis Science Section with the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL). Dr. Marsh holds a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Register Free: https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/cst_w/elevating-quality