University, Southern Sky Brands to Launch CBD Sleep Study

National Center for Cannabis Research and Education to oversee research

Three young women wearing white lab coats walk in front of a large brick building with 'Thad Cochran Research Center' along the top.

OXFORD and CANTON, Miss. – The University of Mississippi and Southern Sky Brands are teaming up to evaluate the effects of cannabidiol, or CBD, on sleep quality in adults.

The study, conducted through the university's National Center for Cannabis Research and Education, represents a significant step toward advancing evidence-based research on cannabinoid therapies and their potential role in supporting healthy sleep. Researchers will examine key sleep-related outcomes, including the duration and quality of sleep and overall wellness measures reported by participants.

Headshot of a man wearing a dark suit with a light blue tie.
Robert Welch

The university established the center in 2022 to advance scientific understanding of cannabis through research, education and public outreach. It builds upon Ole Miss' decades-long leadership in cannabis and cannabinoid research.

"This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to generating high-quality scientific data that can help patients, health care professionals and policymakers better understand the potential benefits of cannabinoids," said Robert Welch, the center's director.

Southern Sky Brands, a Mississippi-based medical cannabis company, is committed to developing patient-focused cannabis products and supporting scientific research that helps improve patient care and product innovation.

"We are proud to partner with one of the nation's leading cannabis research institutions to further investigate CBD's potential role in supporting sleep and overall wellness," said Charles Thompson, the company's director of operations. "As a Mississippi company, we believe investing in clinical research is essential to advancing patient care and building trust through science."

The study is expected to provide valuable data regarding the safety and effectiveness of CBD-based interventions for sleep-related concerns. Findings may contribute to future research efforts and help guide evidence-based decision-making within the medical cannabis community.

Top: The School of Pharmacy and Southern Sky Brands are partnering for a study of how CBD affects duration and quality of sleep in adults. The study is coordinated by the school's National Center for Cannabis Research and Education. Photo by Kevin Bain/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services

By

Staff Report

Campus

Published

July 30, 2026

Topics