Meet MCR: Soren Eustis

Title: Maine Laboratory Director

How long have you been with MCR?

I’ve been with MCR since 2022.

What made you want to work here?

First and foremost, I am a scientist. I was in an academic research environment in physical and environmental chemistry for decades. Eventually, I stepped away from that path to focus more on the life part of my work/life balance. However, my ability to think about and practice science is like oxygen. MCR has a solid reputation for excellent scientific work. When the position came up, it felt like a perfect fit for me. My initial discussions with the staff in MA and ME confirmed this reputation, and I felt like everyone I met felt happy and supported at MCR.

What’s an average work day look like for you?

An average workday doesn’t exist – I like that. I spend most of my day responding to scientific problems and questions. This might mean discussing results with a client, solving issues in the laboratory, or analyzing data. In the background, we always have R&D projects and process improvements happening.

What’s your favorite part of the job?

We often work with customers to solve problems and help them develop products. I enjoy working with clients who are passionate about what they do. MCR is interested in helping our customers succeed, and my position gives me the flexibility to pivot to what is needed.

What is the most interesting fact you’ve learned about cannabis since you started?

Where to start? I love terpenes. I am fascinated by the array that is produced by cannabis. There are 113 known cannabinoids produced by the plant. We only know a little bit about a handful of them. The cherry on top is that we are only now realizing that these two classes of chemicals work together to modulate psychoactivity.

What excites you the most about the Maine cannabis market?

It’s growing! Also, in Maine, we have a strong artisanal/craft culture. Just as we have some of the finest microbreweries in Maine, we have some of the finest cannabis cultivators here. I think Maine growers are leading the pack regarding quality cannabis flower. I am continuously impressed at the level of attention to detail that I hear when interacting with our clients.

What does your personal relationship with cannabis look like?

Complicated. As a young adult, I got into some scrapes with the law and school officials for cannabis. I was kicked out of school and, a year or so later, spent some significant time in jail for possession with intent to distribute. Was this a bummer? Yes. Is it water under the bridge? Yes.

Presently, I have been a medical cannabis patient in Maine since 2016. Seeing it become legal and walk into a dispensary has been mind-blowing. I remember that day like it was yesterday. Cannabis is such a positive in my life. I find it helps with my mood, anxiety, and overall health.

What do you like to do outside of work?

My life outside of work is focused on family and home. I love living in Maine and have been here since 2012. I’m fortunate to have a nice house in the middle of a beautiful forest with some room to breathe. I spend my time with my longtime partner, Sara, and our children. This would include our beagles, Wiley and Jabba. I enjoy gardening, playing guitar, and eating Sara’s cooking.