Clara E. James

Clara E. James is a Full Professor at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Geneva School of Health Sciences, and Privat Docent at the Psychology Department of the University of Geneva (UNIGE). She leads the GEMMI Lab (Geneva Musical Minds Lab) under the Geneva University Neurocenter. Her career spans professional violinistry, academic roles, and pioneering research in music neuroscience.

Education: BSc/MSc in cognitive/experimental psychology (UNIGE), PhD in neuroscience (2008). Research focuses on neuronal substrates of perception/cognition, music-induced plasticity across lifespan, and non-pharmacological interventions for cognitive decline. Key projects include Orchestra in Class (schoolchildren’s music training benefits), piano training’s impact on elderly cognition, and RCTs on music therapy for mild cognitive impairment.

Scientific contributions: Over 50 peer-reviewed articles, grants from SNSF, Alzheimer Suisse, and collaborative projects with EPFL, HUG, and Lausanne University Hospital. Awards include SNSF Lead Agency grants and international collaborations (e.g., Hannover University of Music). Teaching: Master’s-level neuropsychology of music at UNIGE, medical courses on music therapy for cognitive degeneration.

Current work includes an RCT (2023–ongoing) comparing music/visual arts impacts on children’s executive functions. Labs/Teams: NEAD Lab (UNIGE), GEMMI Lab, and interdisciplinary groups addressing aging and neuroplasticity.