An institution of higher education, a related medical facility, or an affiliated biomedical research firm may register with the Administration to purchase cannabis for the purpose of conducting a bona fide research project relating to the uses, properties, or composition of cannabis. A registration filed under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include: the name of the primary researcher; the expected duration of the research project; and the primary objectives of the research project. A registration filed under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall remain valid until there is a change in the research project or a withdrawal of the registration. An academic research representative may purchase cannabis from a licensed dispensary or a supplier of cannabis that is licensed by any federal agency to supply cannabis to researchers. An academic research representative may not be penalized or arrested under State law for acquiring, possessing, or dispensing cannabis, products containing cannabis, related supplies, or educational materials for use in a bona fide research project relating to the uses, properties, or composition of cannabis. The Administration may adopt regulations to implement this section.

The Administration may register an entity to grow, process, test, and transfer cannabis for the purposes of research and development as provided in subsection (b) of this section. A registration issued under subsection (a) of this section authorizes the registrant only to: test chemical potency and composition levels; conduct clinical investigations of cannabis–derived medicinal products; conduct research on the efficacy and safety of administering cannabis as part of medical treatment; conduct genomic, horticultural, or agricultural research; and conduct research on cannabis–affiliated products or systems. To obtain a research and development registration, an applicant shall submit to the Administration: an application fee in an amount to be determined by the Administration; and an application developed by the Administration. An applicant for a research and development registration must meet the registration standards and requirements established by the Administration. A research and development registration is valid for an initial term of 2 years. A research and development registration is valid for 2 years on renewal. A research and development registrant may transfer, by sale or donation, cannabis grown within its operation only to other research and development registrants. A research and development registrant may contract to perform research in conjunction with a public higher education research institution or another research and development registrant.