James received his PhD from the University of Western Australia in 2004, and has worked as a 50/50 teaching researcher at the University of Western Australia since 2005. With Dr Ben Jackson, James co-developed (and currently co-chairs) the 'Psychology of Active, Healthy Living' (PAHL) group in the School of Human Sciences. Research activity within PAHL is focused on the use of psychology theory to (a) advance our understanding of health behavior, and (b) develop sustainable and effective health promotion interventions.

2018-Present - Guest Editor - Nutrients

2013-Present - Associate Editor - Journal of Science & Medicine in Sport

2013-Present - Editorial Board - Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology

2013-Present - Editorial Board - International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology

2014-2016 - Associate Editor - Psychology of Sport & Exercise

Exercise psychology

Mental health

Social support

Motivation psychology

Community health programs

As co-chair of the PAHL group, James helps to oversee and/or undertake reserach on numerous community health initiatives, including the Mummy Buddy Program, Man v Fat soccer, the Growth and Resilience in Teachers (GRiT) program, Better Health, Sports Challenge Australia, the WA Drugh & Alcohol Youth Service (DAYS), the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) / Perth Children's Hospital Healthy Weight Service (PCHHWS), Thriving, and Kid-Do.

James has received over AU$3 million in research funding from agencies such as the Australian Research Council, the National Heart Foundation, the Western Australian Health Promotion Foundation, Exercise and Sports Science Australia, the Health Department of Western Australia, and various industry partners.

SSEH1104 - Active Leadership

SSEH2270 - Psychosocial Aspects of Sport, Exercise, and Health

SSEH3375 - Psychology of Sport and Exercise

SSEH5677 - Sport and Recreation Marketing