Dr. Del Potter is a distinguished medical anthropologist and entrepreneur, renowned for his pioneering work in the field of psychedelic science. He earned his Ph.D. in Medical Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1980, with a specialization in ethno-psychopharmacology and the phytochemistry of psychoactive indigenous botanical pharmacopeia. Dr. Potter’s career is marked by his deep exploration of the cultural significance and psychiatric applications of these substances, which has positioned him as a leading figure in the intersection of anthropology, psychedelics, and pharmacology.

As the Chief Science Officer and founder of Aya Biosciences and Spiritus Biosciences, Dr. Potter has been instrumental in advancing the development of novel psychedelic and plant-based therapeutics. Aya Biosciences, founded in 2020 and based in San Diego, focuses on creating differentiated treatments for conditions such as insomnia, pain, PTSD, and substance abuse by leveraging the latest scientific advancements in psychedelic and cannabinoid medicine. Under Dr. Potter’s leadership, the company aims to develop biochemical strategies to optimize the psychedelic experience, offering faster-acting and more sustainable therapeutic options.

Dr. Potter’s work extends beyond the laboratory, as he actively participates in public discourse on the potential of cannabis and psychedelics to address a variety of health issues in a harm-reduced manner. His contributions to the field are not only scientific but also philosophical, as he draws from a diverse array of perspectives to inform his approach to drug discovery and development. Through his innovative work at Aya and Spiritus Biosciences, Dr. Potter continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in psychedelic science, striving to meet unmet medical needs with groundbreaking solutions.