Dr. Amrit Baral

Amrit Baral is a Ph.D. Candidate in Epidemiology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where his research focuses on the bio-physiological, psycho-social, and behavioral effects of cannabis, cannabinoids, and emerging psychedelic substances. He is dedicated to exploring both the therapeutic potential and associated risks of these substances in the context of human health and diseases.

Originally from Pokhara, Nepal, Dr. Baral trained as a physician at Chongqing Medical University in China and practiced clinical medicine at various government and private hospitals in Nepal. His passion for public health led him to transition into epidemiological research, earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) from West Chester University in Pennsylvania, where he was awarded the Dean’s Scholarship for Global Diversity and Academic Achievement. Following his MPH, he worked as a Disease Surveillance and Investigation Specialist at the Chester County Health Department in Pennsylvania.

Dr. Baral is currently the Data Lead/Lead Biostatistician for the NIH-funded Herbal Heart Study, where he directs the data management team. His role has been crucial in analyzing the Herbal Heart data and disseminating novel findings to the cannabis science community in the U.S. and globally. His expertise in epidemiology, data analysis and biostatistics has been highlighted through numerous presentations at prominent conferences, including the American Public Health Association (APHA), College on Problems of Drug Dependence (CPDD), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), International Cannabinoid Research Society (ICRS), and Society for Epidemiological Research (SER).

An accomplished researcher, Dr. Baral has authored and co-authored numerous publications in peer-reviewed national and international journals. His work focuses on designing and implementing rigorous epidemiological studies, while leveraging advanced biostatistical techniques, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to extract meaningful insights from complex data. Beyond his research, Dr. Baral serves as the Ph.D. student representative on the Public Health Sciences Curriculum Committee at the University of Miami, demonstrating his dedication to academic excellence and leadership.