James Clara

James Clara is a Professor and Head of Research & Development at the Geneva School of Health Sciences (HES-SO), Switzerland. He holds a Privat Docent position at the University of Geneva’s Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences (FPSE). His research focuses on cognitive neuroscience, brain plasticity, and music’s impact on cognitive development across the lifespan, particularly in aging populations and children. He leads multiple interdisciplinary projects funded by organizations like the Swiss National Science Foundation (FNS) and Alzheimer Switzerland. Key initiatives include studies on music interventions for mild cognitive impairment (COPE project) and cognitive enrichment through arts in early childhood.

• Education: Doctorate in Psychology (privat docent) from University of Geneva

Research interests include:
- Music-induced neuroplasticity in aging brains
- Brain imaging techniques (MRI/EEG)
- Cognitive and sensorimotor development through music
- Healthy aging strategies
- Music-related musculoskeletal health in students

Current projects examine:
- Effects of musical training on white matter microstructure in the fornix
- Cognitive benefits of group music/visual arts practice in children
- Psychomotor interventions for mild cognitive impairment patients

• Grants: Over CHF 1M in funding for projects like COPE (2020-2022) and ArODES (2018-2021)
• Collaborations: Universities of Geneva/Neuchâtel, HUG hospitals, Accademia d’Archi

Laboratory affiliations include the NEAD lab at University of Geneva and the HES-SO Research Institute.