Marilyn Huestis

Marilyn A. Huestis is a globally recognized toxicologist and researcher, best known for her extensive work in the field of drug abuse and drug testing. She has made significant contributions to the understanding of the effects of cannabis and other drugs on the human body, particularly in relation to driving and workplace safety.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Huestis was born and raised in the United States. She completed her undergraduate studies in biology and chemistry before pursuing a doctorate in toxicology. Her early interest in the effects of drugs on the human body led her to focus her research on this area.

Career[edit | edit source]

Huestis began her career as a researcher at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), where she worked for over two decades. During her tenure at NIDA, she led numerous studies on the effects of drugs, particularly cannabis, on the human body. Her research has been instrumental in shaping policies and practices around drug testing and drug-impaired driving.

In addition to her research, Huestis has also been an active contributor to the field of toxicology through her involvement in various professional organizations. She has served as the president of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists and the International Association of Forensic Toxicologists.

Contributions to Toxicology[edit | edit source]

Huestis' research has significantly advanced the understanding of how drugs, particularly cannabis, affect the human body. She has conducted extensive research on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabis, providing valuable insights into how the drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body.

Her work has also shed light on the effects of cannabis on driving ability. Huestis has conducted several controlled drug administration studies, which have demonstrated that cannabis impairs psychomotor skills and cognitive function, thereby increasing the risk of motor vehicle accidents.

Recognition[edit | edit source]

In recognition of her contributions to the field of toxicology, Huestis has received numerous awards and honors. These include the Irving Sunshine Award for outstanding contributions to clinical toxicology and the REID Award for excellence in forensic toxicology.