Emily Woods

PIPS Host Organisation: GABA Labs (Sentia)

PIPS Project Title: Behavioural, Gastrointestinal, and Neural Effects of Sentia vs Alcohol

During Emily’s PIPS placement with GABA Labs, she carried out original research comparing the effects of Sentia, a botanical alcohol alternative, with alcohol on the brain and gut. Using an animal model, she examined behavioural consumption patterns, gastrointestinal motility, and neuronal and microglial activation in reward-related brain regions. The findings revealed that, unlike alcohol, Sentia did not cause neuronal overstimulation or inflammation in key reward circuits such as the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens. This distinct neural profile suggested that Sentia may provide the social and hedonic benefits of drinking without the negative neuroinflammatory effects associated with alcohol. Emily also provided future directions for more research to further investigate this.

Alongside research, Emily collaborated with the marketing team to help translate complex brain–gut science into accessible messages for wider audiences, supporting their communication and product positioning strategies. She also contributed to product development by reviewing the scientific literature on potential new botanical ingredients, assessing their efficacy and safety to guide future innovations.

This placement allowed her to develop a wide range of transferable skills. She strengthened her ability to critically evaluate scientific data and present findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. Working with senior leadership gave her valuable insight into how businesses balance research, investment, and long-term strategy. Emily also improved her adaptability by working across diverse areas – from laboratory research to marketing and product development.

Overall, the experience broadened Emily’s career perspective, showing her how neuroscience can be applied outside academia and how effective communication of science is vital in shaping products, businesses, and public understanding.

The DTP were pleased to read in Emily’s PIPS reflections that her “personal effectiveness grew through taking initiative, contributing ideas for future research, and adapting to the balance of scientific and commercial priorities within the company.”