Dr. Hutchison received his Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University in 1995, completed post-doctoral training at Brown University in 1998, and joined the faculty at the University of Colorado Boulder. Early in his career at the University of Colorado, he developed parallel lines of research on alcohol and tobacco use with NIH funding.  From there, he expanded in interdisciplinary directions by incorporating genetics and neuroimaging to better understand individual differences in risk as well as mechanisms in the brain that underlie behavior change.  As part of that evolution, he moved his program of research from the University of Colorado to the Mind Research Network and University of New Mexico (UNM) in 2007.  At the time, CU did not have a magnetic resonance (MR) scanner and MRN offered scanning resources and a cutting-edge genetics program.  Shortly after arriving, Dr. Hutchison was promoted to the leadership team as Chief Science Officer (CSO).  At the time, MRN was receiving about $10 million a year from the federal government to support operating costs, in addition to research grants from NIH and the DoD.  In 2010, there was a change in leadership and a unique opportunity that prompted Dr. Hutchison to return to CU.

In 2012, Colorado legalized recreational cannabis and it became clear that the public health implications of changes in cannabis laws and policies represented a huge and untouched area of research. To facilitate this work, Dr. Hutchison invested a great deal of time and effort into finding ways to push research forward despite complex regulatory issues. These efforts led to an NIH R01 grant from NIDA to study the effects of cannabis products on health outcomes in 2015 and an expansive program of research to study the health effects of cannabis products (e.g., flower, edibles, concentrates) purchased in the state of Colorado. In 2018, Dr. Hutchison founded the CU Center for Research and Education About Cannabis and Health (CU REACH). Dr. Hutchison received the prestigious Distinguished Research Lecture Award at the University of Colorado in 2021.

In 2020, Dr. Hutchison took a new position at the Anschutz Medical Campus as Professor of Psychiatry. As the Director of the nascent Rocky Mountain Center for Research on Cannabinoids (RM-CRC), Dr. Hutchison was also charged with developing an NIH funded Center of Excellence to study the health impact of cannabinoids. The use of cannabinoids impacts every area of medicine (e.g., pain clinics, cancer clinics, psychiatry, dermatology, anesthesiology, pharmacy, etc) and there are more than forty clinical scientists at the Anschutz Medical Campus that are engaged in research on cannabinoids. The new Rocky Mountain Center for Cannabis Research (RM-CRC) will nurture research at the Anschutz Medical Campus and establish research partnerships with the CU Boulder campus. 

In terms of his current research, Dr. Hutchison has integrated his interests in alcohol and cannabis research, neuroimaging, and blood-based biomarkers under one conceptual framework that emphasizes the cannabinoids, endocannabinoids, inflammation, and the brain. For example, one of recent grants tested the effects of a mindfulness-based intervention among individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD).  Specifically, the research is testing the effects of alcohol consumption and mindfulness on dysbiosis in the gut microbiome, blood markers of intestinal permeability, blood markers of inflammation (cytokines), gray matter volume and thickness and white matter integrity in the brain, a blood biomarker that tracks axonal degradation (neurofilament light), behavior, mood, and cognition.  He is also the principal investigator (or co-investigator) on a number of NIH grants that examine the effects of cannabis products (e.g., flower, edibles, concentrates) purchased in the state of Colorado. Specifically, the studies are designed to compare the effects of CBD only products, THC combined with CBD, or THC only on cognitive outcomes, anxiety, and pain using  mobile pharmacology lab. This research focuses on a number of patient populations, including pain patients, individuals who want to stop using opiates, individuals with alcohol use disorder, veterans, and the elderly.  The mobile lab allows for the assessment of blood levels of THC and CBD and a test of whether blood levels of these cannabinoids predict the effects of cannabis on key outcomes (e.g., reductions in pain and opiate use).  This research includes both observational designs as well as randomize clinical trials with an FDA IND.  Most recently, he has been focused on cannabinoids, endocannabinoids, inflammation, and risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The age demographic that is increasing their cannabis use the fastest are those over the age of 65, so these questions are timely and highly relevant from a public health perspective.

Ph.D., Neuroscience and Psychology, 2021

M.A., Neuroscience and Psychology, 2020

B.A., Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, 2014

 

My interest in translational research began early in my academic training when I joined the CUChange laboratory in 2014; the same year, cannabis was legalized for adult use in Colorado. Although the US has witnessed profound changes in the acceptance of cannabis, the scientific literature that should inform public policy and provide harm reduction approaches is outdated, particularly within the rapidly changing cultural, political, and legal landscape. Epidemiological research shows citizens are self-medicating with cannabis without proper guidance to treat various issues from depression to chronic pain. At the same time, our understanding of the risks versus benefits remains inadequate. During my graduate training, I utilized neuropsychological approaches while considering immunological and molecular mechanisms to investigate the risks and benefits of using legal-market products comprising diverse cannabinoid concentrations. My master’s project examined a genetic variant that alters endocannabinoid signaling and sensitivity to the acute effects of cannabis, which is thought to play a role in the development and trajectory of cannabis-related problems. My Ph.D. thesis explored differences in gut microbial diversity and microbial community composition in treatment-enrolled heavy drinkers and heavy recreational cannabis users. I further compared taxa abundance data with clinical measures of depression and anxiety, as well as inflammatory biomarkers, to explore the potential impact of alcohol and cannabis on the gut-brain axis. Currently, I am working as a research associate at Anschutz Medical Campus in the Department of Psychiatry, where our group runs two NIH clinical trials using an FDA-approved IND to investigate the therapeutic potential of CBD in substance abuse disorders. I’m passionate about using a multidisciplinary approach and integrate different biological systems (genetics, metabolomics, lipidomics, inflammation) along with cognitive and psychological data to elucidate the potential harms and potential benefits of cannabinoids for a wide range of human health issues.

 

In my spare time, I enjoy having game nights with friends, outdoor movies in the summer, camping, hiking to secluded lakes and waterfalls, skiing, pizza, trying new breweries and restaurants, and most importantly, spoiling my three pups (Louie, Maxx, and Ruby)! 

 

 

M.P.H., Health Systems, Management, & Policy, Colorado School of Public Health at CU-Anschutz, 2023

B.A., Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2015

About Me: I have worked in clinical research for nearly a decade as a clinical research coordinator working with individuals across the lifespan. I earned my Master's degree at CSPH in May 2023, and have overall interests in improving public health and influencing policy, particularly around natural medicine. I am excited to bring my passion for research to the CHAOS lab as I provide administrative, regulatory, and financial support among other duties as a lab manager. 

In my free time I enjoy live music, hiking, camping, cooking meals at home with my boyfriend, and hanging out with my cats Hatch and Habanero. 

 

 

B.S., Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, Psychology. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 2021

 

Research Interests: I am interested in clinical research involving mental health, psychopharmacology, addiction, and the neural mechanisms of cognition. Specifically, I am fascinated with the psychedelic resurgence occurring within modern psychiatry. Psychedelics as a tool for psychological and neural therapy are already showing promising results for clinical work and research. I believe there is still much to explore within this field, and I plan to continue to move in this direction. As a highly motivated research coordinator, I am building my knowledge and experience in the clinical research of addiction as part of the CHAOS lab. I plan to eventually pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology so that I may focus more intently on my passions in research and mental health.

 

About me: Outside of research, I am a lover of the great outdoors and constantly enjoy hiking, camping, and skiing. My personal interests also involve a great love of music, exercise, and a lifelong devotion to drawing and painting, including scientific illustration.

 

B.A., Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, 2020 

B.A., Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, 2020 

 

 

Research Interests: I am interested in clinical research regarding mental health and pharmacology. More specifically, I am fascinating by the emerging research on psychedelics and how they have the potential to revolutionize mental health care. Though I am still early in my professional research career, my end career goal is to be a part of this groundbreaking research in hopes that one day I can personally touch the lives of those suffering from various psychiatric disorders.  

 

Cannabis has always been a research interest of mine as well, due to its ability to improve anxiety, depression, and addiction symptoms. Because I have personally witnessed all three of these mental health concerns throughout my life, I am eager to be a part of the research conducted at this lab to help better understand how this plant could be beneficial to those closely surrounded by me.   

 

About me: Originally from New Jersey, I came to Colorado for school and instantly fell in love with this state and decided to permanently remain here. I enjoy skiing, hiking, and anything that gets me outside. My biggest hobby though would be attending concerts at the various venues Denver as to offer. You can probably find me most weekends enjoying a show at Red Rocks! If I’m not at a show, I am spending time with my miniature schnauzer puppy.  

B.A., Psychology, Boston University, 2022

Research Interests: I am interested in clinical research involving Digital Health Interventions, mindfulness and acceptance based interventions, and addiction. Specifically, I am interested in contributing to novel studies that investigate ways to support previously underserved or overlooked populations. I am thus excited to be contributing to the research being conducted in our lab, and hope to utilize my research and clinical experience to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology.

About me: After graduating from Boston University, I moved to Colorado and fell in love with all the state has to offer. On the weekends you’ll find me somewhere in the mountains, either hiking, mountain-biking, or skiing, before having a campfire or checking out a local restaurant with some friends.

 

B.A., Psychology, University of Colorado Boulder, 2023

 

Research Interests: My research interests encompass various aspects of psychopathology, including anxiety, addiction, and depression, along with an exploration of alternative medicine, such as cannabis, psychedelics, and mindfulness. I’m particularly invested in delving deeper into the inherent therapeutic potential of plant-medicine, particularly the application of psychedelic-assisted therapy. Additionally, I’m intrigued by the prospect of examining the psychological effects of various isolated cannabinoids and unregulated cannabis products. In the next few years, I plan to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and attain licensure as a Clinical Psychologist. 

 

About me: I’m originally from Kealakekua, Hawai’i and an alumna of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama as well as Semester at Sea. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, traveling abroad, listening to techno, and trying new things. 

B.S., Neuroscience, Baylor University, 2024

 

Research Interests: I have always been fascinated by psychiatry, and I am especially interested in understanding various mental disorders and the clinical applications of different drugs in treating these conditions. My research interests include studying addiction and the potential therapeutic uses of psychedelics, especially in light of the evolving political landscape surrounding drug research. I am particularly excited to explore effective interventions for substance abuse disorders and examining how emerging drug therapies can be integrated into clinical practice. Ultimately, I plan on pursuing a career in medicine as a physician where I can utilize my clinical research to directly improve patient-care.

 

About Me: Outside of lab, I am usually enjoying the beautiful weather with my two dogs, Millie and Moose, or I am spending time with my family and friends. I am also an avid sports fan, so I love attending any sporting events whenever the opportunity presents itself.

Jaime Laurin - Program Manager

 

B.S., Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2015

M.S., Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 2017

 

Research Interests: My background is in physiology and aging. My broad research interests include slowed aging for increased healthspan, energy metabolism, and exercise-drug interactions. During my time as a research professional, I have worked in a variety of therapeutic areas including metabolism & endocrinology, emergency medicine and women’s health. I am experienced in translational research, but particularly enjoy working on clinical trials. 

 

About me: I moved from Massachusetts to Colorado for graduate school and decided to stick around for the long-term. Outside of work, I like to run, camp, mountain bike, hike, backpack, and ski – usually with my partner Justin and my dog Roo in tow. When I’m not having type-II fun, I like to read books, hang out at the park, or go to the farmer’s market. I also have two kitties named Pigeon and Moose, who are the best cats a girl could ask for!

 

Julia Byers - Clinical Research Coordinator

 

B.A., Psychology, University of Northern Colorado

Research interests: I love working in mental health research and am fascinated with the psychological and biological processes that influence human behavior. I have always wanted to work with integrative therapies and plant medicines. More specifically, I am interested in cannabis, medicinal fungi, and mindfulness meditation. I am very passionate about nature and its connections to mental and physical health. I truly believe that plant medicines are fundamental for the health of humans, animals, and the environment, as we are all connected.  

 

About me: I was born and raised in Colorado and I have a true love for outdoor adventures. I love snowboarding, hiking, and doing pretty much anything outside with my two pups. Over the past several years, I have become extremely interested in gardening and I view the processes as my very own outdoor experiments.

 

 

Angela Lankenau - Clinical Operations Manager

 

 

B.A., Psychology, University of Colorado Boulder, 2022

MPH, Health Systems, Management, & Policy, CU Anschutz Medical Campus, 2025

 

Research Interests: My primary research interests lie in women's health, population mental health, and addiction. Specifically, I want to contribute to the research and science that helps those who are underserved or previously overlooked in scientific literature. Being at the front end of cannabis research in both this lab and my previous lab at CU Boulder, I've realized my passion for offering unique solutions to problems that affect clinical populations. Eventually, I want to go back to school for a graduate degree that helps me positively contribute to science and society, the specifics of what that may be have yet to be determined!

About me: Outside of work, I love exploring and adventuring around Colorado. Camping is one of my favorite things, combining my love for nature while taking a break from day-to-day life. Although I have yet to learn to ski and mountain bike, I hope to learn soon so I can continue to take advantage of all this state has to offer! On an ideal day, I'll take care of my houseplants, go to a Cyclebar class, try out a new recipe, and watch a movie with my boyfriend, Owen. 

Alexis Krause - Clinical Research Coordinator

B.S., Psychology; Organizational & Professional Communication Studies,

University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, 2018 

Research Interests: Although I am interested in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, I am primarily excited about the latter! I enjoy exploring data and the way we can succinctly make inferences on various analyses. It's kind of like opening our mind to endless possibilities, but also remembering how much we still do not know. This type of abstraction is very neat! I am also very intrigued by the way people communicate and discover meaning in their lives which is why I enjoy talk therapy, and the like. I am very happy to pivot from a more recent public health research lens to a clinical research perspective to gain more insight on scientific methodologies all the while being able to work more closely with clinical populations! Looking forward, I hope to pursue a PhD in clinical/counseling psychology. 

About me: I like to try new things, which fuels my passion for traveling and stepping outside my comfort zone. After obtaining my undergraduate degree, I traveled abroad for a year and a half where I studied and worked with various somatic therapies. My other hobbies are just as expansive as my general interests. Some that have persisted are snowboarding, painting, dancing, climbing, running, camping, star gazing, singing (to help with my extremely mediocre guitar playing), reading, and of course, hanging out with my cat!

 

River Roberts - Clinical Research Coordinator

 

B.S., Psychology, Colorado State University, 2024

 

Research Interests: I am passionate about clinical research focused on attention, the neural mechanisms of cognition, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and cognitive impairment. My specific interests include exploring the impact of addiction and substance use on these mechanisms. I am particularly fascinated by the potential of progressive treatments such as CBD for managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), given the significant negative side effects of current treatments. Additionally, I am interested in how CBD and different psychedelics could aid in relaxation, anxiety reduction, and pain relief for individuals with TBI or mild TBI, potentially enhancing rehabilitation and neuroplasticity therapy. Recently graduated with a B.S. in Psychology, I am embarking on my journey in clinical research with the long-term goal of earning a Ph.D. in cognitive neuroscience or neuroscience to advance treatment protocols and my research capabilities.

 

About Me: Born and raised in Virginia, I moved to Colorado to attend Colorado State University and have fallen in love with the state. Outside of my research interests, I enjoy hiking, skiing, cooking, and traveling. During my undergrad I lived in Germany for six months to attend an immersive language program which significantly improved my German fluency. I am always eager to learn new things and expand my knowledge across various domains beyond neuroscience.

 

 

Valerie Truesdell - Clinical Research Coordinator

 

B.S., Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, 2022

 

Research Interests: My personal and academic journey has led to a deep passion for integrative natural medicine, such as psychedelic-assisted therapy and mindfulness-based interventions, that influence perceptual, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive domains across the mind-brain-body. In contrast to the psychiatric paradigm of fixed diagnoses reflective of permanent pathology in the brain or genes, I support the notion that the true nature of the mind can transcend suffering. As such, I am highly Interested in cognitive and contemplative neuroscience that challenges traditional approaches to pain management, addiction, and mental health.

 

About me: Outside of work, I am a lover of nature, art, and music of all types. You’ll often find me rock climbing, biking, camping, hiking, painting, or busting out amateur moves on the dance floor.

 

 

Alan Morris - Postdoctoral Fellow