Meet Shelley James
Lighting consultant, TEDx speaker, educator, and advocate for healthier, high-performing environments through the science of light.
A Mission to Illuminate Lives Through Light
Shelley James is an international consultant, speaker, and educator specialising in the science of light and its impact on human health, wellbeing, and performance.
After a successful career in design and business strategy, Shelley returned to university to study neuroscience and light – driven by a personal mission to bridge the gap between research and real-world application.
Today, she works with global organisations, architects, educators, and healthcare leaders to create lighting environments that help people thrive.

Combining Science, Design, and Strategy
This cross-disciplinary perspective makes Shelley a trusted guide for organisations seeking to create environments that support health, learning, and productivity.
Academic Rigour
Collaborates with Oxford University, UCL, King's College London, Stirling University and others around the world.
Design & Business Background
Over 20 years’ experience in design, business development, and communication strategy.
Speaking & Thought Leadership
TEDx speaker and presenter at leading conferences including EuroLuce, with features in the LA Times, Light Review, and more.
An Approach Grounded in Empathy and Evidence
Whether consulting on a workplace lighting project, speaking at a global conference, or educating schoolchildren, Shelley’s approach is always:
Evidence-Based
Grounded in the latest scientific research
Practical
Focused on actionable, measurable outcomes
Inclusive
Making lighting science accessible to everyone
Passionate
Driven by a mission to improve lives through better lighting
Trusted by leaders in healthcare,
workplace innovation and education

" A great session !- super-practical and full of cool facts too, the conversation was really interesting and engaging at all times. The session was over booked and the room was packed with colleagues from every level in the organisation. We all left with a better sense of what might work better for ourselves and other people, we learnt about the impact and importance of light exposure and how this is related to our mental and physical health. ... The session with Dr. Shelley was enlightening and my colleagues came away buzzing and excited to put some of the tips into practice at home and in the office. "
Andrea Burnett
We have loved working with Shelley: we value especially her rigour and generous-spirited creativity. She literally sheds light on the subject of human thriving and wellbeing - people go away from her sessions with a host of new illuminating insights.
Tracy Camilleri
Working with Dr. Shelley James was a great experience. While she has the knowledge of a researcher, she has the time management skills of a business person. Always professional, courteous, knowledgeable--and on time!
Randy Reid
Shelley advanced the role of lighting in a compelling way -- touching on wellbeing and productivity, and how light can improve sleep, resolve conflict, reduce back pain and support shift work.
Jeremy Myerson
I first met Shelley when she launched her Luna Golightly campaign. Since then we have found numerous ways to collaborate and what fun it is. With me being firmly and squarely in the commercial and technical segment of the lighting industry, it’s wonderful to work with Shelley as she brings deep knowledge of the latest and historical science and research related to light and lighting, along with a sharp mind and eye for creating actionable insights. Her industry reputation and credibility precede her and she is a proper team player who conducts herself with integrity. These qualities combine to make Shelley a formidable commercial partner and industry colleague.
Pete Earle
I had heard about Dr. Shelley James, affectionately known as 'The Light Lady,' even before assuming my role at The Lighting Industry Association. Renowned as a trusted academic in our field, she has a remarkable ability to distil complex lighting concepts into clear, relatable insights for a much wider audience. Her wealth of research and expertise in quality lighting, particularly its impacts on health and well-being, is an invaluable resource to The LIA. It’s always a delight to meet her at industry events and experience the warmth and professionalism she brings to those she organises. Her commitment to improving the industry and advancing the understanding of lighting's role in our lives is truly inspiring.
Ayça Donaghy
Dr Shelley James is a great addition to the design team. In her work, she considers not just the lighting proposals but also the wider implications of the project, such as energy efficiency, inclusive design, and the building users’ well-being.
Zane Putne
Ready to Work With Shelley?
Book a consultation or speaking engagement today and discover how lighting can transform your spaces and the lives within them.