From Lab to Legislation and Startups: An Unconventional Neurocareer with Amanda Wiggins, PhD

Jun 21, 2025

What does it look like to take a neuroscience degree far beyond the lab? In this episode, we explore a career path that crosses scientific research, government regulation, and biotech entrepreneurship with Dr. Amanda Wiggins, CEO of The cGP Lab.

Amanda began her career investigating neurodegeneration and cortical spreading depression. Over time, her passion for real-world impact led her into public policy—where she helped shape New Zealand’s Human Tissue Act and advised on regulations for stem cell research and genetic technologies. Today, she leads a company advancing neuroprotective health supplements based on cyclic Glycine-Proline (cGP), a molecule with growing potential in aging and cognitive health.

We talk about:

• How to navigate transitions between academia, government, and business

• The challenges of working across disciplines—and how to build confidence in new spaces

• Lessons learned from leading regulatory change and scaling innovation

• Amanda's work at The cGP Lab and the science behind cGP’s potential in brain health

• Advice for scientists who want to move into leadership, entrepreneurship, or public engagement

This conversation is for anyone considering a non-linear career in neuroscience or wondering how to apply scientific training in new and meaningful ways.

Chapters:

00:00:02 - Bridging Neuroscience and Biotech Innovation
00:04:06 - FDA Approval of Trofinetide for Rett Syndrome
00:07:27 - My Journey in Science and Identity
00:09:22 - Pursuing a PhD in Melbourne
00:11:55 - Choosing a PhD Topic
00:17:26 - Challenges and Motivation in PhD Journey
00:20:54 - Transition from Academia to Regulatory Work
00:22:52 - Transitioning from Academia to Policy
00:25:51 - Advising on the Human Tissue Act
00:29:18 - Advocating Biotechnology in New Zealand
00:33:51 - Regulations and Challenges in Biotechnology
00:37:49 - Newborn Blood Screening and Research Ethics
00:41:22 - Transitioning from Science to Biotech
00:46:04 - Challenges of Startup Success
00:48:34 - Journey to Neuroactive Innovation
00:55:23 - Mentorship and Startup Advice
00:58:49 - Dementia Prevention and Early Detection
01:02:03 - Exploring Alzheimer's Research Frontiers
01:06:45 - Advancing Your Neurocareer

About the Podcast Guest:

📬 Connect with Dr. Amanda Wiggins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandawiggins/

📍 The cGPMAX natural supplement range: https://cgpmax.com/

The cGP Lab on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/73800100

About the Podcast Host:

The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in neurotech and Brain-Computer Interfaces, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed.

Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K:

• Identification and pursuit of career goals
• Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development
• Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice
• Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies
• Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals

You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation

Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news