Kevin McKernan is a renowned leader in DNA sequencing technology. He led a research team part of the original Human Genome Project and is the founder and Chief Science Officer of Medicinal Genomics, a life sciences company that distributes genetics-based platforms for quality and safety testing of legal cannabis.Nick and Kevin discussed the Cannabis genome, the genome of Psilocybe cubensis (magic mushrooms); Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology, how it works, and how it's used for COVID-19 testing; cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and recent research indicating their potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects; blockchain technology for genomics data; and mRNA vaccines and SARS-CoV-2.Support the showSign up for the free weekly Mind & Matter newsletter:[https://mindandmatter.substack.com/?sort=top]Learn how you can further support the podcast: [https://mindandmatter.substack.com/p/how-to-support-mind-and-matter]Become a Premium Subscriber to access full content library, including full premium episodes:[https://mindandmatter.substack.com/subscribe?utm_source=menu&simple=true&next=https%3A%2F%2Fmindandmatter.substack.com%2F]Try the Lumen device to optimize your metabolism for weight loss or athletic performance. Use code MIND for $50 off:[https://www.lumen.me/shop?fid=8731&utm_source=influencer&utm_medium=influencer&discount=MIND]