Dr. Julia Shaw – Memory Researcher and Criminal Psychologist
Dr. Julia Shaw is a German-Canadian criminal psychologist, memory researcher and bestselling author known for her fascinating insights into the human mind. Born in Cologne in 1987 and now based in London, she conducts research at University College London (UCL), focusing on criminal psychology, memory and artificial intelligence.
Her work explores one of the most intriguing questions about the human brain: how memory shapes identity, behaviour and reality. Through pioneering studies and engaging storytelling, she demonstrates how easily memories can be altered, influenced or even completely fabricated.
Dr. Shaw’s research has made her a widely respected voice in psychology and neuroscience. Her work frequently appears in international media, and she is regularly invited to share her expertise across television, podcasts and conferences worldwide.
The Science of Memory and Identity
One of Dr. Shaw’s most influential contributions to psychology is her groundbreaking “False Memory” study. Using suggestive questioning techniques, she successfully implanted false memories in 70% of her test participants. The study revealed how vulnerable human memory is to suggestion and how easily people can come to believe events that never actually happened.
These findings have major implications for areas such as criminal investigations, legal systems, leadership communication and marketing. In her keynotes, Dr. Shaw explains how memory works, why we develop false memories and how our recollections shape the stories we tell about ourselves.
Audiences gain powerful insights into:
Why our memories are less reliable than we think
How memories shape personal identity and decision-making
How suggestion, influence and storytelling affect what people remember
Techniques to improve memory in crucial moments
Through these insights, Dr. Shaw helps organisations understand how memory influences communication, leadership and human behaviour.
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of the Mind
Beyond her work in psychology, Dr. Shaw also explores the intersection between human cognition and artificial intelligence. She founded the Silicon Valley start-up SPOT in 2017, a platform designed to help organisations address discrimination and misconduct using artificial intelligence.
Her work at the interface of human and artificial intelligence raises fascinating questions about how technology influences our perception, decisions and memories. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into everyday life, understanding the relationship between human cognition and digital systems becomes more important than ever.
In her keynote “The Future of Humanity”, Dr. Shaw takes audiences on a thought-provoking journey into the mechanics of the brain in the age of artificial intelligence. She explains how technological advances may reshape the way we think, remember and interact with the world.
Crime, Cybercrime and the Nature of Evil
Dr. Shaw’s expertise also extends into criminal psychology and the nature of evil. Her bestselling book Making Evil explores why people commit crimes and how environments, circumstances and psychology interact to shape criminal behaviour.
She is also a recognised expert on the psychology of cybercrime, helping audiences understand how digital environments influence criminal activity and human decision-making.
In recent years, her work has expanded to include large-scale environmental crimes. Her book GREEN CRIME, published in Germany, the UK and the United States in autumn 2025, examines the most significant environmental crimes of our time and their global impact.
These topics give audiences a rare opportunity to understand crime from a psychological perspective, offering insights relevant to business, security, policy and technology.
Bestselling Author and Global Voice in Psychology
Dr. Shaw is also widely known for her bestselling books, which have reached readers around the world. Her debut non-fiction book The Memory Illusion became an international bestseller and has been translated into more than 20 languages.
Her second book, Making Evil, also achieved bestseller status and explores how ordinary people can commit harmful acts under certain circumstances. Her book Bi: The Hidden Culture, History and Science of Bisexuality received multiple awards and recognition for its unique exploration of identity and science.
Her research and ideas have been featured in publications including Der Spiegel, The Times and New York Magazine. She also works as a true crime expert for the BBC and contributes to various television and podcast productions in Germany and the United Kingdom.
Keynotes That Challenge How We See Ourselves
Dr. Julia Shaw’s keynotes bridge psychology, technology and society in a way that captivates audiences across industries. With a dynamic speaking style and powerful scientific insights, she explains complex topics in ways that are both accessible and unforgettable.
Her talks explore themes such as:
Memory and identity
The psychology of crime and cybercrime
Artificial intelligence and human cognition
Diversity and human behaviour
Communication and memorable storytelling
By combining scientific depth with engaging storytelling, Dr. Shaw delivers presentations that leave audiences with a deeper understanding of the human mind and the forces shaping our future.
