RESEARCH

Dr. Villalba’s research examines the therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabinoids in mental health and substance use disorders. Her work primarily focuses on the role of cannabidiol (CBD) in stress regulation, inflammation, and memory reconsolidation, particularly in conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Additional interests include epidemiological studies on the simultaneous and co-occurring use of cannabis and alcohol, examining their impact on health and addiction risk.

Dr. Villalba has also 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, and Brazil.  She has played a leading role and collaborated on research initiatives across Spain and Latin America, reinforcing global substance use and mental health research.

If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Villalba’s ongoing research projects or collaborating with her, feel free to reach out to her via email at Karina.Villalba@ucf.edu