Optimization of a Cannabis Flower Extraction Method to Improve Cannabinoid Recovery and Analytical Consistency

My capstone project focused on evaluating and optimizing cannabinoid extraction methods for cannabis flower analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The primary objective was to determine whether targeted modifications to sample preparation and extraction parameters could improve cannabinoid recovery and analytical consistency beyond the laboratory’s current baseline method. To achieve this, I conducted a series of experiments assessing the impact of key variables, including homogenization techniques, sample mass, solvent selection, and assisted extraction methods such as sonication and heated sonication. This project required shifting from routine compliance-based testing, which typically defines my role, to a more validation-oriented approach that emphasized experimental design, data interpretation, and method improvement. The overall goal was to identify practical, evidence-based recommendations that could enhance method performance while remaining feasible for implementation within a regulated laboratory environment.