R&D Testing Beyond Compliance
Compliance testing answers a fixed regulatory question: does this batch meet California DCC thresholds? R&D testing answers a different set of questions — ones your team defines based on what you're trying to create, refine, or understand. Whether you are developing a new formulation, evaluating a new extraction process, or characterizing a novel cultivar, R&D testing gives you the analytical data to make informed decisions.
SQRD Lab's R&D testing program is built around direct collaboration. Our scientists work with your team to scope the right analytical approach, select appropriate methodologies, and interpret results in the context of your specific research goals. We apply the same ISO/IEC 17025 accredited instrumentation used for compliance testing — so your R&D data is built on the same rigorous foundation.
Common R&D Testing Applications
R&D Program Capabilities
R&D projects draw on SQRD Lab's full analytical instrumentation suite — ICP-MS, HPLC, GC-FID/MS, headspace GC/MS, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, and PCR — applied in custom combinations based on your research objectives. Custom panels and phased testing programs are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cannabis R&D testing does SQRD Lab support?
We support a wide range of research and development testing needs including formulation optimization, raw ingredient characterization, extraction yield analysis, novel cannabinoid identification, stability screening, and custom analytical method development. Our scientists work directly with your team to design the right panel for your research objectives.
Can SQRD Lab test materials that are not yet finished products?
Yes. R&D testing is specifically designed for in-process materials, raw inputs, prototype formulations, and experimental batches that are not intended for retail distribution. We can analyze cannabis plant material, crude extracts, distillates, isolates, terpene fractions, infused carrier oils, and other intermediate-stage materials.
How does R&D testing differ from compliance testing?
Compliance testing follows a defined regulatory panel with fixed pass/fail thresholds set by California DCC, and results must accompany batches entering distribution. R&D testing is flexible — you define what you want measured, at what level of detail, and for what purpose. Results are used to inform formulation decisions and research, not regulatory compliance.
What analytical instruments are used for cannabis R&D testing?
Depending on the research objective, we apply ICP-MS for trace elemental analysis, HPLC for cannabinoid quantification, GC-FID/MS for terpene profiling, headspace GC/MS for volatile compound analysis, LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS for targeted compound identification, and PCR methods for microbial screening. R&D projects can draw on any combination of these capabilities.
Is a DCC license required to submit samples for R&D testing?
Samples submitted for testing at a DCC-licensed laboratory must comply with California cannabis regulations regarding licensure and transfer documentation. Contact our team to discuss your specific situation and ensure samples are submitted in accordance with applicable requirements.
Can R&D testing support intellectual property or patent applications?
Yes. Documented analytical results from an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory provide defensible data for characterizing novel formulations, demonstrating unique cannabinoid or terpene profiles, and supporting claims made in intellectual property filings. Our chain-of-custody documentation and accredited methodology support the integrity of R&D records.
Start Your R&D Testing Program
Contact our Los Angeles laboratory to discuss your research objectives and get a custom testing plan.