Development and application of powerful new DNA tools for investigative forensics and agricultural utilisation in Cannabis Sativa

This project will develop and use new DNA profiling methods (STRs) in Cannabis sativa that can withstand forensic and legal scrutiny for: (1) discriminating among low-and high-drug varieties, and (2) for identifying the origin of seized drugs. This will provide a powerful new investigative tool for intelligence analysis of organised and commercially motivated criminal activity. These methods will also aid the expanded licensing of low-drug cannabis by: (1) assisting in the identification of agricultural varieties for Plant Breeders Rights registration, and (2) providing tools for monitoring seed stock purity, marker assisted plant breeding and genetic mapping.