Photo caption: Dr. Machel Emanuel

The Faculty of Science and Technology at The University of the West Indies, Mona proudly congratulates Dr. Machel Emanuel, Horticulturalist in the Department of Life Sciences, on his recent appointment as Technical Consultant Advisor to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy for the Commonwealth of Dominica.

In this pivotal role, Dr. Emanuel will lend his scientific expertise to support Dominica’s cannabis legislative reform and economic development, with a particular focus on advancing the medicinal cannabis industry. His appointment signals a progressive step forward for the nation as it seeks to harness the economic and therapeutic potential of cannabis in a regulated and sustainable manner.

Photo caption: Dr. Machel Emanuel prapring a Cannabis herbarium sameple in St. Thomas, Jamaica.

Dr. Emanuel currently serves as Principal Investigator of the Cannabis Research Group in the Department of Life Sciences at The UWI Mona. His research focuses on tropical horticulture for Cannabis sativa, with emphasis on maintaining quality, efficacy, and consistency throughout the cannabis value chain. His work has included optimizing cultivation and postharvest systems for medical cannabis cultivars adapted to tropical conditions, as well as assessing the efficacy of biopesticides in sustainable vegetable production.

Photo caption: Dr. Machel Emanuel at a Cannibis Farm at St. Vincent and the Grendines. 

Beyond academia, Dr. Emanuel has played a crucial role in shaping Jamaica's cannabis landscape. He serves as Vice-Chair of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica Cannabis Technical Committee and is a technical member of the Cannabis Industry Development Taskforce under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. His contributions have been instrumental in establishing national standards and regulatory frameworks for Jamaica’s cannabis industry.

Dr. Emanuel’s appointment to Dominica’s Ministry reflects regional recognition of his expertise and dedication to research-informed policy development. The Faculty extends best wishes as he continues to bridge science, policy, and sustainable development across the Caribbean.

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