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Cannabis Genomics Conference 2025

On June 18th, 2025, the second edition of the Cannabis Genomics Conference took place at Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany. CGC 2025 brought together leading voices in cannabis science for a focused and forward-looking exchange on the future of plant genetics. With a total of over 150 participants, CGC 2025 reflects the continued international interest in the rapidly evolving field of cannabis genomics.
 

About

The Cannabis Genomics Conference (CGC) reconvened researchers, breeders, policymakers, and industry professionals—this year in the historic halls of Humboldt University. As the only European event dedicated exclusively to cannabis genomics, CGC 2025 solidified its role as a platform for advancing knowledge and fostering cross-sector collaboration.

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From polyploid breeding and seed sexing innovations to landrace conservation and IP reform, discussions emphasized both technological breakthroughs and the need for responsible stewardship.

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Highlights from this year’s conference included:
 

  • Spectral fingerprinting & AI-driven seed sorting set a new benchmark in seed quality control and breeding by enabling early, non-destructive prediction of germination, sex, vigor, and cultivar identity—offering scalable, pharma-grade screening and elite genotype selection.
     

  • Polyploid breeding & triploid cannabis offer a path to sustainable outdoor cultivation by preventing pollination and preserving cannabinoid-rich flower, but challenges like instability and inconsistent performance highlight the current limitations of this approach.
     

  • Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR) and CPVO registration play a key role in protecting cannabis varieties, helping breeders secure legal protection, recover investments, and enhance market credibility.

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  • Tissue culture multiplication offers various commercial benefits, enabling pathogen-free and genetically stable plantlets for pharmaceutical and industrial applications.

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  • Renewed attention to European and Caribbean landraces, urging the mapping and protection of overlooked regional diversity and its benefits to commercial breeding.
     

  • Classification, consistency & consumer confusion call for a new, science-informed classification system that bridges the gap between consumer language and genomic reality—moving beyond "indica/sativa" labels by incorporating environmental influences, chemotype data, and structured naming conventions to improve clarity, reliability, and trust across the industry.
     

  • The plant’s complex reproductive biology reveals a need for deeper research into sex-determining genes and Y chromosome function—offering insight into how sex plasticity, feminization techniques, and monoecious traits affect breeding, vigor, and long-term genomic stability.

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CGC 2025 underscored the tension between innovation and standardization, conservation and scalability. 

As always, CGC encouraged open dialogue and critical thinking—offering not just answers, but the right questions.

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Speakers

Judith J. Meijles & Lizah van den Engel

Naktuinbouw, Team DUS vegetables, ornamentals, agriculture, The Netherlands

Protecting cannabis varieties: Naktuinbouw’ s Role in Variety Testing
and Plant Breeders’ Rights

PBR grants rights to breeders over their new plant varieties, enabling them to recover investments and earn royalties. It also promotes innovation and collaboration in the agricultural and horticultural sectors. PBR provides a legal framework to enforce rights, reducing risks of copying or infringement. Naktuinbouw has expertise in PBR testing and is entrusted by national and international bodies, such as the CPVO (Community Plant Variety Office), to conduct official examinations. For pharmaceutical cannabis, Naktuinbouw has been the entrusted examination office for cannabis PBR trials in the EU. The protected status often increases market trust and recognition, making the variety more attractive to buyers and investors.

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Zoom-in 1: PBR trials at Naktuinbouw; overview of the procedure (incl. licenses, material, trial set up, protocol, collections, cannabinoids testing)

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Zoom-in 2: Cannabis DNA database and its role in DUS

Judith J. Meijles & Lizah van den Engel

Biography

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Judith: Graduated in Plant Breeding at Wageningen University in 1992, Judith worked as a breeder at private breeding companies in ornamental crops and pharmaceutical cannabis. With a passion for innovation in horticultural crops, she is convinced that having a strong IP is fundamental to continuous breeding. Since 2007, she has been employed at the Variety Testing Department (Naktuinbouw, NL) as technical examiner for Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR). At Naktuinbouw, she examined vegetable, ornamental and agricultural crops. Since 2017, her work has been focused on Cannabis.​

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Lizah: With a background in medical and moleculair biology, Lizah has 5 years of experience in performing quality tests for DUS (Distincness, Uniformity, Stability) to obtain registration and/or Plant Breeders' Rights at the Variety Testing Department (Naktuinbouw, NL). In this position, she specializes in DUS work of a diverse range of vegetable, ornamental and agricultural crops, including Cannabis.

Daniela Vergara

Agricultural Genomics Foundation, Cornell Cooperative Extension, USA University of Colorado Boulder, USA

Sexual Strategies and Chromosome Evolution in Cannabis sativa

Abstract

In this talk, Dr. Daniela Vergara explores the sexual strategies and sex chromosome evolution of Cannabis sativa. She begins by explaining key differences between dioecy, monoecy, hermaphroditism, and polygamy, placing C. sativa within the broader context of plant sexual systems. She then traces the evolutionary history of sex chromosomes, highlighting the degeneration of the Y chromosome and its limited recombination with the X. Despite a clear XX/XY system, C. sativa exhibits remarkable plasticity in sex expression, including monoecious individuals and sex reversal techniques used to produce feminized seeds.

Dr. Vergara also addresses genomic differences between male, female, and monoecious plants, noting that many questions remain about the function and content of the Y chromosome. She poses important questions such as whether traits linked to vigor, disease resistance, or yield are associated with the Y chromosome, and what may be lost when the Y is excluded. Lastly, she emphasizes the need for further research into the genes controlling sex expression and their chromosomal locations, especially as breeding programs increasingly rely on feminized seed and monoecious lines for production.

Daniela Vergara

Biography

Dr. Daniela Vergara is an evolutionary biologist, data analyst, educator, scientific writer, and public speaker. In addition to her multiple publications, she founded and directs a non-profit organization, the Agricultural Genomics Foundation (AGF; AgriculturalGenomics.org). AGF aims to make hemp and cannabinoid science available to a broad public. Vergara has been part of the scientific teams at private companies including Steep Hill, Inc. who are a global leader in agricultural testing, and the biotech company Front Range Biosciences. Dr. Vergara recently joined the Harvest New York Extension Team from Cornell University as an ‘Emerging Crop Specialist’ to help hemp farmers with their crops.​

Published research
 
  • Genomic and Chemical Diversity in Cannabis
  • The Genomics of Cannabis and Its Close Relatives
  • Compromised External Validity: Federally Produced Cannabis Does Not Reflect Legal Markets
  • Genetic and Genomic Tools for Cannabis sativa
  • The phytochemical diversity of commercial Cannabis in the United States
  • Complete publications list
Dominique van Gruisen

Innexo BV

Spectral Fingerprinting and Advanced Seed Sorting as a New Quality Control Benchmark and Breeding Tool

Abstract

The cannabis industry is undergoing a rapid transformation in response to pharmaceutical quality standards, demanding a higher level of genetic uniformity, germination consistency, and trait predictability. Traditional seed quality control methods—relying on batch sampling and post-hoc phenotyping—are no longer sufficient for the needs of large-scale, compliant production.

 

This presentation introduces a novel approach combining spectral fingerprinting and AI-driven seed sorting to establish a new benchmark for seed quality control and breeding precision. By capturing high-dimensional spectral data from individual seeds and correlating it with phenotypic outcomes, this method enables the non-destructive prediction of key traits such as germination potential, sex, vigor, and even cultivar-specific characteristics. When applied at scale, it allows for the systematic upgrading of seed lots, detection of off-types, and identification of elite genotypes at the earliest stage of the plant lifecycle.

 

Case studies will be presented from recent trials conducted by Innexo BV, demonstrating how this technology reduces the need for chemical feminization, shortens breeding cycles, and increases the commercial reliability of F1 hybrid and open-pollinated lines. We argue that spectral seed profiling is not only a disruptive quality assurance tool but a strategic breeding accelerator that could redefine genetic pipeline development in Cannabis sativa L.

Dominique van Gruisen

Biography

 

Dominique van Gruisen is the fouder and CEO of Innexo BV, a Dutch contract research organization specializing in advanced cannabis breeding, seed phenotyping, and pharmaceutical-grade cultivation systems. With a near 20 year career in the cannabis industry and background in cannabis genetics and controlled-environment horticulture, Dominique leads innovation at the intersection of plant science, automation, and quality control. His work at Innexo focuses on third party research, new cultivation strategies and improving genetic uniformity through spectral fingerprinting and AI-driven seed sorting, with the goal of accelerating the standardization of cannabis as a pharmaceutical crop.

Anna Schwabe

University of Colorado, USA & Shore/420 Organics, USA

Classification, Consistency, and Consumer Confusion

Abstract
The cannabis industry faces a persistent communication problem rooted in inconsistent language, flawed classification systems, and a scientific understanding that is still developing. The terms "indica" and "sativa" dominate consumer conversations, but genomic and chemotype research has not consistently supported these labels. But dismissing them outright ignores their historical roots, everyday usefulness, and the possibility that important biological differences have yet to be discovered. This talk explores the disconnect between popular terminology and scientific models. Drawing on examples from other industries, I argue that the issue lies not in the use of names but in the lack of structure behind them. I will show how environmental effects, poor labeling practices, and overreliance on terpene data contribute to the confusion. Rather than replace one flawed system with another, we need a more flexible and science-informed language that serves both researchers and consumers. This talk does not offer a perfect solution but encourages deeper, more collaborative approaches to cannabis classification and communication.

Anna Schwabe

Biography

 

Dr. Anna Schwabe is a leading expert in Cannabis Science and Education, with a B.S. in Cellular & Molecular Biology, an M.S. in Biological Sciences focusing on Plant Population Genetics, and a Ph.D. in Biological Education and Cannabis Genetics. Her award-winning doctoral research, “A Multifaceted Approach to Investigate Genetic Aspects in Cannabis sativa,” has been published in multiple peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Schwabe is a lecturer at the University of Colorado, where she co-teaches cannabis science courses that emphasize evidence-based education and foster informed, critical discussions around cannabis. Based in New Jersey, she actively works with the cannabis industry as an advisor, educator, and consultant bridging the gap between academia, industry, and public understanding.

Leon König

Humboldt University Berlin, Humboldt Seed Company

Native Cannabis landraces from Germany

Abstract

An Insight into the Genetic Heritage of German Cannabis Landraces in the Berlin/Brandenburg Region

With their unique characteristics and impressive appearance, Leon König shares his observations from the past 15 years and discusses his initial impressions of their potential for outdoor breeding in Central Europe.

Leon König

Biography

 

Leon König is a student researcher at Humboldt University of Berlin and a teaching assistant in the “Cannabis Research Class.” He works at the university’s Cannabis Research Lab, focusing on closed-loop cultivation systems, sensor-based optimization, and adaptive plant development.

Leon also collaborates with Humboldt Seed Company on international pheno hunts, European trade fairs, and research into which cultivars are best suited for the Central European growing season. Together with Dr. Machel Emanuel and Ed Rosenthal, he developed an international inter-university knowledge exchange program focused on heritage genomics and cannabis genetics.

Carlos Ribelles

Cannaflos Genetics SL

Cannabis tissue culture: Advanced propagation for medicinal plants

Abstract
In vitro conservation and multiplication techniques are essential tools for ensuring the genetic stability, health, and year-round availability of Cannabis sativa plant material for pharmaceutical applications. This presentation outlines key methodologies and discusses their roles in producing pathogen-free, genetically uniform plants. Applications range from the establishment of mother plant libraries, pathogen-free conservation and genetic reguvination to the scalable production of elite cultivars. Emphasis is placed on how these techniques contribute to a secure, standardized, and traceable supply chain, addressing the stringent quality requirements of the pharmaceutical industry.

Carlos Ribelles

Biography
Carlos Ribelles Alfonso is a plant biotechnology specialist with extensive experience in cannabis genetics, breeding, and tissue culture. He currently serves as Head of Research and Laboratory Director at Cannaflos Genetics S.L., a subsidiary of Cannaflos GmbH, where he leads the development of EU-registered medicinal cannabis cultivars and oversees the production of pathogen-free plant material in compliance with GACP and GMP standards.
Prior to joining Cannaflos, Carlos conducted research at the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), focusing on plant tissue culture and in vitro propagation techniques. His expertise includes micropropagation, viroid eradication, and the establishment of genetic banks for pharmaceutical applications. Under his leadership, Cannaflos Genetics has expanded its CPVO-registered cultivar catalog and secured authorization from the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) for cannabis cultivation for research and commercial propagation purposes.

Machel A. Emanuel

Life Science Cannabis Research Group, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology
The University of the West indies, Mona Campus, Kingston 7, JAMAICA

The nostalgic value of Caribbean heirloom ‘cannabis’ genetics

Abstract

In the 1960s, the Caribbean region gained international reputation for cultivating and supplying ‘ganja’ to global illicit markets of Europe and North America. The production of equatorial landrace and heirloom cultivars had genetic influences from South Asia, Central and South America. These Caribbean heirloom cultivars displayed physiological, morphological and phyto- chemical characteristics consistent with narrow-leaf drug types. In the 1990s, Caribbean territories came under heavy eradication efforts and incarceration of farmers. The introduction of cannabis genetics from Europe began to enter the region in particular Jamaica. Local farmers saw practical reasons for growing these temperate cultivars. Broad leaf drug types gown in an equatorial climate remains short in stature and completes its life cycle in eight to ten weeks, thereby making cultivation more inconspicuous for law enforcement. With the advent of decimalization and legalization of cannabis in the region, the perception and aesthetics of marketable cannabis is dominated by European and North American hybrid varieties. The development of cannabis genetics suited for production in humid and dry Tropics, with organoleptic qualities for the modern-day palate will contribute to the reduction in carbon footprint and sustainability. The retention of genetic traits from Caribbean heirlooms could add to the nostalgic value of marketing and branding of Caribbean cannabis and value-added products.

Machel A. Emanuel

Biography

 

Dr. Machel Emanuel is a Lecturer/Researcher in the Department of Life Sciences at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Jamaica. He received a PhD in Botany from the University of the West Indies Mona Campus, Jamaica. He is the Principal Investigator of the Life Science Cannabis Research Group, his research team conducts research in the area of Tropical Horticulture for Cannabis sativa, its application, consistency, efficacy, and quality control throughout the Cannabis value chain. His research team collaborates with the Humboldt Seed Company in the development of cannabis germplasm suited for equatorial cultivation. The research group has also received grant funding from BioBizz Worldwide Organics in advancing sustainable and environmentally friendly practices from cannabis production. Dr Emanuel is the Vice- chair of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica Cannabis Technical Committee for the development of standards for the Jamaica Cannabis Industry. He was listed on Leaf Nation 2024 Impact list as one of the individuals making an impact in the Cannabis world. In 2015 he was the 2nd place winner in the Best New Style Farming Category at the High Times World Cannabis Cup held in Negril Jamaica.

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Max Jones

Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Canada

Challenges and opportunities with polyploid breeding in Cannabis

Abstract

As countries around the world legalize cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, it has rapidly developed into a multi-billion-dollar industry.  Currently, cannabis is largely cultivated indoors under artificial lighting to ensure quality and consistency.   This practice results in significent negative environmental impacts including a carbon footprint of up to 5184 kg CO2-equivalent per kg of dried flower and polluting water systems through excessive fertilizer use.  It also increases the cost of production dramatically.   A major challenge limiting wider outdoor cultivation is unwanted pollination and seed set, which diverts resources from flower/cannabinoid production into the seed and results in unmarketable flower.  Seedless triploid cannabis offers a practical solution to this challenge and could enable outdoor production without the risk of seed set.  However, early research shows that not all triploids are seedless and many question the potential of this techology in cannabis.  This talk will provide an overview of the current state of polyploid breeding including the potential, the challenges, and where we go from here.

Max Jones

Biography

 

Dr. Jones is an associate professor specializing in plant tissue culture and biotechnology.  He has been working almost exclusive with cannabis for about 10 years and in 2018 was among the first researchers in Canada to obtain a research license to cultivate cannabis on campus.   He has published over 70 peer reviewed journal articles, several book chapters, and is a leading authority in cannabis micropropagation and biotechnology.

Timetable - CGC 25 

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