James Ainge

Prof James Ainge is a Professor and Head of the School of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of St Andrews. He holds a PhD and BSc in Psychology from the same institution. His research focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms of episodic memory, using systems neuroscience approaches involving in vivo electrophysiology and genetic tools to study hippocampal and entorhinal cortex networks. Complementing this, his lab also investigates cognitive mechanisms of episodic memory in humans and children, with applications to Alzheimer’s disease therapy.

• Education:
  • PhD in Behavioural Neuroscience, University of St Andrews
  • BSc (Hons) Psychology, University of St Andrews

His research interests span systems neuroscience, molecular biology, and translational approaches to neurodegenerative disorders. He has received a Lifetime Fellowship at the Institute of Advanced Studies, Durham University (2021).

Key projects include examining the role of the lateral entorhinal cortex in memory and collaborating on workplace physical activity interventions. He supervises PhD students like Benjamin Thompson and Maneesh Kuruvilla.

Recent publications highlight interdisciplinary work on memory mechanisms, Alzheimer’s therapies, and public health initiatives. His lab is actively involved in collaborative projects and conferences, contributing to both basic and applied neuroscience.