How a bold researcher reshapes global understanding while inspiring progress and sparking debate
Introduction
Julia Shaw stands as one of the most dynamic and influential voices in contemporary psychology. As a German-Canadian psychologist, bestselling author, memory scientist, and respected public intellectual, she has transformed how the world understands memory distortion, criminal behaviour, identity, and the human mind. Celebrated for her research as a false memory expert and cognitive psychology specialist, she offers powerful insights that challenge long-held beliefs about memory reliability and forensic practices. At the same time, her bold public communication invites both admiration and discussion, illustrating the positive and negative reactions that pioneering thinkers often face.
Her career embodies the fusion of academic excellence, scientific authorship, and impactful media communication. Combining research, storytelling, and psychological science communication, Julia Shaw has become a global figure whose work influences students, researchers, and general audiences seeking clarity about behaviour, identity, and truth.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Julia Shaw |
| Date of Birth | 20 January 1987 |
| Birthplace | Cologne, Germany |
| Nationality | German–Canadian |
| Profession | Psychologist, Author, Researcher, Media Presenter |
| Fields | Memory Science, Criminal Psychology, Cognitive Psychology |
| Partner | Paul Livingston |
| Known For | False memory research, bestselling books, BBC true-crime podcasts |
| Education | SFU (BSc), Maastricht University (MSc), UBC (PhD), Goldsmiths (MA) |
Early Life and Identity
Julia Shaw was born in Germany and raised partly in Canada, giving her a multicultural foundation that shaped her worldview. This international background made her naturally curious about human behaviour, identity, and the mechanisms behind memory formation. Growing up as a German-born psychologist with a Canadian-raised academic background, she developed a multicultural mindset that later strengthened her ability to engage global audiences. Her early exposure to diverse cultures influenced her future work as a psychological science communicator and public intellectual in psychology.
Her early fascination with how people think and remember events laid the foundation for her becoming a leading figure in cognitive psychology, criminal behaviour analysis, and memory science research.
Education and Academic Formation
Julia Shaw’s education reflects her dedication to interdisciplinary learning. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, followed by a Master’s degree in Psychology and Law, where she began exploring the relationship between cognition and justice. Her academic journey peaked when she completed her PhD in memory science, where she conducted groundbreaking work on memory distortion and the creation of false memories.
Her later academic development included advanced study in queer history, adding depth to her exploration of identity and behaviour. These experiences demonstrate her growth into a forensic psychology researcher and interdisciplinary psychology scholar capable of blending scientific evidence with social insight.
Start of Career and Research Roles
Julia Shaw began her teaching career at major universities, where she lectured in psychology, criminology, and behavioural science. Her work as a university psychology lecturer helped her refine her ability to translate academic theory into practical understanding. Over time, she progressed into research positions, becoming an honorary research associate at UCL, where she contributed to psychological studies involving memory, behaviour, and criminal justice.
Her expertise in investigative interviewing psychology and human behaviour analysis has influenced educators, legal professionals, and students worldwide. These roles established her reputation as a modern psychology leader whose insights shape both academic and public conversations.
Breakthrough Research in Memory Science
Julia Shaw is internationally recognised for her pioneering work in memory distortion research. Her studies show how the human mind can create, alter, or reconstruct memories—sometimes with surprising detail. As a memory science specialist and false memory expert, she challenges traditional assumptions about eyewitness testimony and memory reliability.
Her findings have become central to forensic discussions, influencing how courts, investigators, and psychologists evaluate recollection. The powerful impact of this research makes her not only a behavioural science influencer, but also a critical thinker who pushes forward the boundaries of psychological understanding.
Books and Publications
Alongside her academic work, Julia Shaw has earned global acclaim as a scientific author and popular science writer. Her books include:
The Memory Illusion
A best-selling exploration of how the brain remembers and forgets, and why memory is far more flexible than people believe. This book positioned her as a leading voice in psychology literature.
Making Evil
A bold, thought-provoking examination of harmful behaviour and the psychology behind actions labelled as “evil.”
Bi
An influential work exploring bisexuality through the lens of science, culture, and history, demonstrating her expertise in identity psychology.
Green Crime
Her new release exploring environmental harm and the psychology behind destructive decisions.
Each publication strengthens her legacy as a researcher, educator, and storyteller.
Media Presence and Public Communication
Shaw’s influence extends far beyond academia. She became widely known as a true-crime podcast host, co-hosting the BBC series Bad People, where she analyses criminal cases using psychological insight. She also presents documentaries and appears on radio and television as a media psychology contributor and psychology documentary presenter.
Her ability to simplify complex research for broad audiences makes her a standout science communication influencer admired for clarity, accuracy, and engaging delivery. This public visibility reinforces her reputation as a thought leader on memory and global psychology impact figure.
Business Innovation: Spot
Julia Shaw is also co-founder of Spot, an AI-based platform designed to help individuals document workplace mistreatment. This venture reflects her commitment to applying psychological science to real-world challenges through technology and psychology integration. Spot has gained recognition as a workplace harassment reporting tool that blends innovation with behavioural support.
Complete Career Overview
Julia Shaw’s career represents the blended path of researcher, educator, communicator, and innovator. Her contributions include:
- advancing memory research globally
- deepening public understanding of criminal behaviour
- shaping conversations on identity through science
- contributing to true-crime media analysis
- innovating AI tools grounded in psychology
She stands today as one of the most influential figures shaping modern psychological thought.
Latest News
Her latest publications and media projects continue to attract international attention. With a new book and ongoing podcast work, she remains at the forefront of behavioural science and memory research.
Legacy
Julia Shaw’s legacy lies in her courage to challenge assumptions, her ability to make science accessible, and her commitment to truth in a world shaped by memory and perception. As a German-Canadian psychologist, author, and global communicator, she continues to influence how society understands the mind.
Conclusion
Julia Shaw’s career proves that psychological science can be both rigorous and deeply human. Her work empowers people to question their memories, understand behaviour, and explore identity with compassion and clarity. Through her research, books, and media presence, she has become one of the most powerful voices shaping contemporary psychology.
FAQs
Q1: What is Julia Shaw known for?
She is known for her research on false memories, her bestselling books, and her influential media work.
Q2: What is her field of expertise?
She specialises in memory science, criminal psychology, and behavioural analysis.
Q3: Does she host any podcasts?
Yes, she co-hosts true-crime and psychology podcasts and appears regularly in media discussions.
Q4: What makes her research important?
Her findings challenge long-held beliefs about memory reliability and influence forensic practice.
Q5: What is her legacy?
Julia Shaw is recognised as a pioneering memory researcher and a leading modern psychology communicator.
