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2026 Faculty and Speakers

This symposium brings together some of the most respected clinicians, researchers, and thought leaders in the field of cannabinoid medicine. Each year, leading experts from across Canada and internationally convene to share emerging research, clinical evidence, and real-world prescribing experience.

Recognized by many in the medical community as a premier forum for scientific exchange in cannabinoid therapeutics, the event serves as a global meeting point for advancing evidence, shaping clinical frameworks, and elevating the standard of education in this rapidly evolving field.

The speakers featured below represent the multidisciplinary expertise that defines the symposium and its role as a leading platform for rigorous discussion and collaboration in clinical cannabinoid research and practice.

Hance Clarke

MD

Dr. Clarke is a staff Anesthesiologist, Director Pain Services, Director Good Hope Ehlers Danlos Clinic, Medical Director of The Pain Research Unit, Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Associate Professor, Department of Anesthesia, University of Toronto. Dr. Clarke is the Director of Pain Services and the Pain Research Unit at the Toronto General Hospital(TGH).  He is the knowledge Translation Chair for the University of Toronto Centre For the Study of Pain and an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management. Dr. Clarke has played a leading role in educating the public about pain control, alternatives to opioids as a pioneering strategy at TGH, and the need for further studies on the beneficial and adverse effects of cannabis. He is a champion of evidence-based solutions for the opioid crisis and a national pain and addictions strategy. He has been recognized for the development of the Transitional Pain Program and has authored over 100 peer reviewed publications.

Evan Lewis

MD, FRCPC, CSCN EEG Diplomate, CMLE, C-CAT(P)

Dr. Evan Cole Lewis is a neurologist and clinical neurophysiologist with academic appointments at the Hospital for Sick Children and the University of Toronto. His clinical and research work focuses on medical cannabis and psychedelic therapies for neurologic disorders, including epilepsy, chronic headache, concussion, and functional neurological disorder. He has extensive experience prescribing medical cannabis in adults and children and has served as a co-investigator and steering committee member on clinical trials in drug-resistant epilepsy and chronic headache.
 
Dr. Lewis is the author of a comprehensive medical cannabis dosing textbook for clinicians, providing practical, evidence-informed guidance on formulation selection, titration, and safety across adult and pediatric populations. The text integrates clinical trial data with real-world prescribing experience and is used internationally as a reference for medical cannabis education.

Zachary Walsh

Professor, Psychology The University of British Columbia, Affiliated Scientist, BC Centre on Substance Use

Dr. Zach Walsh, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and a Professor of Psychology at the University of British Columbia, where he supervises the substance use services clinic and directs the Therapeutic Recreational and Problematic Substance Use lab. Professor Walsh was the Principal Investigator for the first clinical trial in Canada to study cannabis for the treatment of PTSD, and his cannabis research has been supported by CIHR, SSHRC and others. He has published more than 100 research articles and has presented to diverse professional and public audiences – including the Canadian Senate and House of Commons on topics related to cannabis, psychedelics, mental health, and public health. His work has been widely featured in various media including the New York Times, Time Magazine, and High Times.

Erin Mignault

MScN, NP-PHC

Erin is a nurse practitioner with almost four decades of experience in a variety of healthcare settings. She holds an undergraduate nursing degree from the University of Manitoba and a master’s degree from York University. She completed her primary care NP diploma at the University of Ottawa in 2014.
 
As a former Clinical Nurse Specialist in pediatric oncology, Erin has been treating patients with medical cannabis for over 20 years. She began independently authorizing medical cannabis in 2017.
 
Erin has an extensive background in clinical practice education and has presented at numerous national and international conferences. She presents frequently on the topic of medical cannabis, both to healthcare professionals and the lay public.

Karolina Urban

Executive Vice-President of Medical Affairs, Avicanna Inc.

Dr. Karolina Urban is the Vice President of Scientific and Medical Affairs at Avicanna where she leads the development and execution of Avicanna’s preclinical and clinical research programs including collaborations with leading neurologists, clinicians, and scientists. Dr. Urban also leads the company’s medical affairs efforts and has successfully developed and implemented global training programs for healthcare providers interested in authorizing medical cannabis. Dr. Urban has a MSc in Neurosciences and PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Toronto, with expertise in neuroimaging and brain injury. She is a former professional hockey player winning the Clarkson Cup in the C.W.H.L. and an academic all-Canadian. Currently, she is on the board of Scientific Advisors for MYndspan, a brain analytics company, and member of Board of Directors for Kinark Child and Family Services Foundation.


• MORE SPEAKERS TO BE ANNOUNCED •

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Be part of the conversation shaping the future of clinical cannabis care.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 2026 6th MEDICAL SYMPOSIUM