James E. Muller papers open for research!

James E. Muller and Yevgeniy Chazov
James E. Muller (L) and Yevgeniy Chazov (R) at IPPNW US-USSR party, Amsterdam, 1983. James E. Muller papers, 1954-2016 (inclusive), H MSc 565. Harvard Medical Library, Francis A. Countway Library of Medicine, Boston, Mass.

The Center for the History of Medicine is pleased to announce that the James E. Muller papers are now open for research.

James E. Muller is a cardiologist known for his role as a cofounder and secretary of International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW). He has served in clinical and research roles at a number of medical institutions, including Brigham and Women’s Hospital, New England Deaconess Hospital, University of Kentucky Medical Center, and Massachusetts General Hospital. His research focuses on heart attack triggers and arterial debris termed “vulnerable plaque.” IPPNW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985. Muller received the Community Service Award from the Archdiocese of Indianapolis in 1998 and was named Distinguished Scientist (Basic Domain) by the American College of Cardiology in 2023.

The James E. Muller papers, 1954-2016 (inclusive) are the product of Muller’s professional and volunteer activities during his career as a cardiologist, Soviet Union specialist, and anti-nuclear war activist. The collection consists of professional records, records of Muller’s volunteer and service activities, and personal papers. Professional records include Muller’s research on and participation in programs with the Soviet Union, cardiology research, and his medical technology company Infraredx. Volunteer records include Muller’s work with IPPNW, the Catholic reform organization Voice of the Faithful (VOTF), and the presidential campaigns of Gary Hart and Michael Dukakis, among others. Personal papers include Muller's time as a medical exchange student in the Soviet Union.

For more information on the James E. Muller papers, please view the collection’s online finding aid. For information about accessing the collection, please consult the Center’s website or contact Public Services.