Utkarsh Gupta
Doctor of Philosophy, School of Psychology and Sport Science
1. Tell us about yourself
I am a driven and passionate cognitive neuroscientist, entrepreneur, foreign medical graduate, and proud Anglia Ruskin University alumnus. My journey bridges medicine, neuroscience, and innovation – from countless hours in the research lab to co-founding Neurogether Ventures LLC, a healthcare venture studio advancing neuro-innovation, and advising its parallel non-profit, the Neurogether Ventures Foundation, which promotes healthcare and wellness innovation. Currently, I also serve as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of North Dakota, where I continue to explore the neuroscience of various cognitive functions and translate research into real-world impact. Guided by curiosity, collaboration, and a deep belief in the power of teamwork, I am dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and industry to drive meaningful change in brain health and wellbeing.
2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?
I still vividly remember my first tour of the psychology research labs in the Science Centre on the ARU Cambridge campus. I had goosebumps realising that this would be my research home for a few months during my Masters in Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience. Little did I know then that it would become my home for nearly five years – an inspiring place where I had the privilege of working alongside some of the most supportive friends, colleagues and exceptional supervisors one could ask for.
3. What has been your favourite job?
Positioned at the intersection of clinical practice, research, and industry in cognitive neuroscience, my favourite job (if it can be called a job) has been building an ecosystem that nurtures innovation, collaboration, teamwork, and real-world impact.
4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?
Launchpad.
5. How did your time at ARU help you?
Anglia Ruskin University has been instrumental in shaping both my research and entrepreneurial journey. I was incredibly fortunate to be mentored by Professor Jane Aspell, Professor Peter Bright, and Dr Alex Clarke, whose guidance and encouragement supported not only my academic pursuits in cognitive neuroscience but also my early steps into the world of healthcare innovation and enterprise through Neurogether. The Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy played a crucial role in the development of Neurogether Ventures, providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities such as the Live Briefs initiative and the Cambridge-Latvia Venture Camp partnership, which allowed me to connect with entrepreneurs, researchers, and stakeholders within and beyond the university. The Department of Psychology and the broader ARU leadership cultivated an environment where interdisciplinary ideas could thrive, supporting my efforts to bridge academia and industry.
Moreover, being situated in Cambridge’s vibrant innovation ecosystem offered unparalleled exposure to startups, incubators, and thought leaders who helped me envision Neurogether’s potential. Even after completing my PhD in Psychology, ARU has remained a steadfast supporter and recognised my work with the Highly Commended Alumni Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 2025 Anglia Ruskin University Vice Chancellor’s Outstanding Alumni Awards. Anglia Ruskin University continues to provide encouragement and connection during my time in North Dakota, USA. The university’s ongoing belief in its alumni and commitment to fostering innovation have been key pillars in my professional growth.
6. What did you love about your chosen course?
What I loved most about my PhD in Psychology at Anglia Ruskin University was the perfect balance of independence, mentorship, and collaboration that defined the entire experience. The programme provided the freedom to shape my research direction while ensuring that expert guidance from my supervisors (Professor Jane Aspell, Professor Peter Bright, and Dr Alex Clarke) was always close at hand. Their mentorship not only strengthened my scientific thinking but also encouraged me to communicate my research effectively across academic and public platforms. I was continually impressed by the department’s commitment to research excellence, reflected in access to state-of-the-art laboratories, psychophysiological tools, and internal funding that allowed students to pursue ambitious projects and present at international conferences.
Equally enriching was the sense of community within the research cohort. My peers were not just fellow students but collaborators and friends who were always willing to exchange ideas, provide feedback, and celebrate each other’s milestones. This atmosphere of mutual support fostered both academic growth and lifelong friendships. Anglia Ruskin truly offered an environment where curiosity was nurtured, innovation was encouraged, and every student felt empowered to push the boundaries of their discipline.
7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?
Do not hesitate to ‘ask’ and be ‘ambitious’.
8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?
Looking back, one thing I wish I had known while studying is just how valuable it is to start practising grant writing early. Beyond being a means to secure funding, writing grants teaches you how to clearly communicate the significance, feasibility, and broader impact of your research. These are skills that are essential for a successful academic career. The process also sharpens critical thinking and helps you develop a long-term research vision.
From an industry and entrepreneurship perspective, I’ve learned the importance of always keeping an eye on real-world application and asking how your research can translate into meaningful outcomes beyond the lab. Having a clear vision and roadmap for impact, whether through technology, collaboration, or community engagement, bridges the gap between academic discovery and societal benefit. Balancing the two perspectives of academic rigor and real-world relevance has become one of the most valuable lessons of my career.
9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?
My granddad, Dr Rajendra Kumar Gupta.
10. What advice would you give your younger self?
Strive to be ambitious, yet pragmatic about the path forwards.
11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
I have a tattoo of a huge neuron that I designed myself, covering the entire length of my right arm and deltoid region. I drew it six years before actually getting it. The motivation behind it was to ‘earn’ the tattoo once I became a neuroscientist – which I did in 2019 after completing my Masters in Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience from Anglia Ruskin University. Soon after that, I had the tattoo made.
12. What’s next?
What’s next for me is to continue advancing my research in cognitive neuroscience through an integrated clinical and academic career, where I can bridge scientific discovery with patient-centred applications. Alongside this, I plan to expand my entrepreneurial work through Neurogether Ventures, translating neuroscience innovations into real-world healthcare solutions.
On a more personal front, I hope to collaborate with my parents – Dr Madhurendu Kumar Gupta and Mrs Yamini Akinchan – to carry forward my father’s lifelong vision of establishing pathology and veterinary services in rural and underserved communities in our hometown of Ranchi, India.