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Six Questions for the Researcher Interviewed by: Cyril Ibe, interim Land-Grant Communications Coordinator Craig Schluttenhofer, Ph.D.
Key Terms and Definitions
Cannabis – The Cannabis sativa L (inclusive of both hemp and marijuana) Hemp – Cannabis sativa meeting the federal/state definitions of <0.3% delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol by dry weight Cannabinoids — A class of specialized metabolites produced primarily in Cannabis Metabolites — A chemical produced by the plant
Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer is Research Associate Professor of Natural Products at Central State University. He received his doctorate in Plant Physiology from the University of Kentucky in 2016, where his dissertation focused on understanding the transcriptional regulation of specialized metabolism. He obtained a Master of Science in Plant Pathology from Purdue University in 2011, the same institution he had earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture Science as well as Plant Genetics and Breeding. “For grain and fiber, my efforts focus on an optimal flowering time for Ohio, seed traits, plant height, and of course yield. The goal is to develop varieties that are consistent and reliable for Ohio farmers to grow, so they can be successful producing hemp crops for grain and fiber.” Craig Schluttenhofer
Dr. Schluttenhofer currently specializes in the genetics and biochemistry of Cannabis used for agricultural and medical purposes. He started working with hemp in 2014 as a graduate student at the University of Kentucky. His prior work included investigating methods for tissue culture of hemp* and understanding grain shattering. Dr. Schluttenhofer’s research focuses on hemp and includes breeding new varieties; agronomic and horticulture production practices; understanding plant biology, biochemistry, genetics, and genomics; evaluating products; and developing new technologies and products. Specifically, his plant breeding efforts target developing unique fiber, grain, and metabolite hemp varieties adapted to the Ohio River Valley region. Production practices seek to optimize plant growth, crop yield, and quality. Currently, his plant biology efforts seek to develop tools for studying gene functions. Popular hemp products are evaluated for potential benefits and risks to consumers. New technologies are being developed to enable hemp production by small-scale growers and processors. Products are being developed that capitalize on Ohio’s agriculture and manufacturing heritage to expand market opportunities for hemp producers.
“My mentoring centers on the fact that everyone is good at something. So, I like to let the student find a way to use their skills to solve a problem my lab is addressing. Magical things happen when you let student be creative.” - Craig Schluttenhofer
Dr. Craig Schluttenhofer Research Associate Professor of Natural Products
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