Dr. Villalba’s research is focused in investigating how cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids influence neurobiological pathways, stress regulation, inflammation, and cognitive function, with a particular focus on their therapeutic potential in mental health and substance use disorders. She examines the role of CBD in modulating stress responses, reducing neuroinflammation, and enhancing neural plasticity, which may contribute to improved symptom management and treatment adherence in conditions such as PTSD, cannabis use disorder (CUD), and alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Additionally, Dr. Villalba explores the potential of CBD as an adjunct therapy, evaluating its impact on craving reduction, withdrawal management, and relapse prevention in individuals with substance use disorders. Her work also extends to epidemiological research, examining trends in cannabis and alcohol use and their longitudinal effects on health. Her research seeks to establish a comprehensive understanding of CBD’s therapeutic mechanisms and its role in evidence-based treatment strategies for substance use and mental health disorders.

Beyond Dr. Villalba’s work on cannabis, she has led and contributed to multidisciplinary national and international studies on the intersection of alcohol use, sexual and physical trauma, adverse childhood experiences, and HIV. Internationally, Dr. Villalba has established a network of researchers across Latin America and Spain, including countries such as Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, Ecuador, and Venezuela. She has played a leading role and collaborated on multiple research projects in Spain and Latin America.