Sundial Signs a Collaborative Research Agreement with the University of Calgary and the Hotchkiss Brain Institute

CALGARY, July 17, 2018 /CNW/ - Sundial Growers Inc. ("Sundial") has signed a three (3) year Memorandum of Understanding for Collaborative Research with the University of Calgary related to research and clinical studies of cannabis for medicinal purposes. The partnership aligns with the University of Calgary's strategic research areas of brain and mental health, as well as infections, inflammation and chronic diseases.

"Sundial is thrilled to sign this partnership agreement with the University of Calgary and we look forward to working with the Cumming School of Medicine's Hotchkiss Brain Institute, as well as other institutes and departments, to find opportunities for world-class research and clinical studies of cannabis strains for medicinal purposes," said Sundial's President, Geoff Thompson. "Partnership agreements with world-class research institutions such as the University of Calgary are important for Sundial as we work towards becoming a leading international medical cannabis company." 

Through the agreement, the University of Calgary and Sundial will work together to define and implement research and clinical studies that meet the strategic goals of both organizations. The parties will also look to create opportunities to sponsor specific trainees and faculty for projects related to the advancement of the understanding of medicinal applications of cannabis and to secure partnership funding to establish research chairs and trainee sponsorships for specific research projects.

"Early research into the possible benefits of medicinal cannabis shows promise. This agreement with Sundial will put the University of Calgary at the forefront of the scientific advancement of medicinal cannabis as a treatment option for a number of medical conditions," said Dr. Keith Sharkey, Interim Director, Hotchkiss Brain Institute. "Sundial's approach to growing cannabis in their specialized cultivation modules makes them a strong partner for the University of Calgary, which needs a consistent and quality supply of cannabis for research purposes."

Sundial and the University of Calgary will collaborate over the coming months to develop projects of mutual interest to both parties. Once projects are determined, the parties will enter into separate Project Agreements that will define specific goals and be governed by standard clinical trial protocols.

About Sundial Growers Inc.
Sundial Growers Inc. ("Sundial") is a privately held, Alberta-based Health Canada ACMPR-approved licensed producer of medical cannabis. Sundial combines tried and true heartland farming practices with innovative horticultural techniques to grow a select range of cannabis strains. Our focus is on producing consistent cannabis that our customers can trust.

Sundial currently operates a 31,000 square foot production facility in Rocky View, Alberta, and has two separate production facilities in various stages of completion and licensing. By 2019, we expect to be one of the leading cannabis companies in the country with a projected production of over 150 million grams of dry cannabis and the ability to process over 30 million grams of cannabis extracts.

About the Hotchkiss Brain Institute
The Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI) at the University of Calgary consists of more than 140 scientists and clinician-scientists who are dedicated to advancing brain and mental health research and education. The Institute's research strengths, in Brain & Behaviour, Neural Injury & Repair and Healthy Brain Aging, are leading to a better understanding of the brain and nervous system and new treatments for neurological and mental health disorders, aimed at improving quality of life and patient care. More information about the HBI can be found at hbi.ucalgary.ca. 

About the Cumming School of Medicine
The Cumming School of Medicine is a leader in health research, with an international reputation for excellence and innovation in health care research and education. We train the next generation of health practitioners, and take new treatments and diagnostic techniques from the laboratory to the patient, always keeping in mind our goal: Creating the Future of Health.

About the University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a global intellectual hub located in Canada's most enterprising city. In our spirited, high-quality learning environment, students thrive in programs made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. Our strategy drives us to be recognized as one of Canada's top five research universities, engaging the communities we both serve and lead. This strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by the university's Gaelic motto, which translates as 'I will lift up my eyes.' For more information, visit ucalgary.ca/eyeshigh.

For more information about Sundial Growers Inc., visit www.sundialgrowers.com.

SOURCE Sundial Growers