Professor Adele Diamond, a world-renowned Tier 1 Canada Research Chair and global authority in developmental cognitive neuroscience, joined the KLCII International Advisory Board in August 2025. The appointment was officially confirmed during a two-week visit to preschools in Singapore, where she conducted four masterclasses and spoke as a keynote and panellist at KLC’s events.

During her visit, she inspired parents, educators, education leaders, and healthcare professionals with her pioneering work, which has been central to shaping our modern understanding of executive function (EF) – particularly in children.

Professor Diamond was the first to link EF to the prefrontal cortex and to study how executive functions are influenced by biology, environment and interventions such as play, mindfulness and education. Her research spans cognitive psychology, neuroscience, child development, and education, making her highly influential across disciplines and widely cited as a leading global authority on executive function research.

From left: Ms Jade Chen (VP Organisational Development, KLCII), Dr Chua Ying Hwee (Principal and CEO of KLCII), Professor Adele Diamond (Tier 1 Canada Research Chair Professor of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Canada), Ms Kok Sher Min (VP Marketing, KLCII)

“It is wonderful to see a teacher training institution so aligned with both science and compassion. I am honoured to join the International Advisory Board.”
— Professor Adele Diamond

About Professor Adele Diamond

Professor Diamond, PhD, FRSC, is the Head of the Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC), and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. She is internationally recognised as one of the 15 most influential neuroscientists alive today and is ranked in the top 0.01% of scientists worldwide.

As a pioneering co-founder of the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience, her research has transformed understanding of executive functions — such as working memory, self-control, attention, and cognitive flexibility — and how these can be strengthened from infancy through holistic approaches that integrate cognitive, social, emotional, and physical well-being.

With more than 59,000 citations, $24 million in research funding, and over 600 keynote talks delivered globally (including at the White House), Professor Diamond’s influence spans psychology, neuroscience, and education worldwide. In recognition of her humanitarian contributions, the Adele Diamond Foundation was established to support quality education for Maasai children.

For Professor Adele Diamond’s detailed profile, please visit https://psychiatry.ubc.ca/adele-diamond/

Strengthening KLCII’s Mission

Her appointment to KLCII’s International Advisory Board marks an exciting milestone for KLCII, as we continue to strengthen our mission of bridging worlds between research and practice. With her global expertise and thought leadership, Professor Diamond will play a pivotal role in guiding KLCII to:

  • Advance evidence-based approaches in early childhood education
  • Promote innovation in teaching and learning strategies
  • Support educators in nurturing every child’s unique potential
  • Expand international perspectives to shape impactful educational practices

“We are honoured and humbled to have Professor Adele Diamond join us. Her work has shaped how the world understands the minds of children.”
— Dr. Chua Ying Hwee, CEO, KLCII

KLCII warmly welcomes Professor Adele Diamond to our family and looks forward to the inspiration, insights, and impact she will bring to our shared journey of transforming education.