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Understanding Autism

Join a growing community of families, autistic adults, and researchers working to understand autism and improve lives.

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WHY JOIN SPARK

  • You’ll be part of the largest autism research community
  • It’s simple and free
  • SPARK is a long-term study that will provide answers to research questions for years to come
  • Together we can advance the understanding of autism
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Who Can Join

  • SPARK is for all individuals living in the U.S. with a professional diagnosis of autism and their family members
  • All ages are welcome

How to Join

  • Create an account online
  • Agree to share data and genetic information
  • Registration takes about 20 minutes

What Participation Means

  • Participation is online and free
  • Your information will be kept private and secure
  • Answer questions about your autism experience
  • Return your saliva kit if you agree to genetic research
  • Learn about additional research opportunities
New to SPARK? Learn more.
Already a participant? Visit your personal SPARK Dashboard.

MEET OUR PARTICIPANTS

Coming of Age: What Awaits Young Adults With Autism?
Coming of Age: What Awaits Young Adults With Autism?

The road to adulthood begins for many teens when they graduate from high school and move on to a first job or college. But for people with autism, leaving high school is a more monumental step, one that will transform their relationship to services. How can they prepare?

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What Can Autistic People Learn From Genetic Testing?
What Can Autistic People Learn From Genetic Testing?

Which autistic people are most likely to learn something from a DNA test? And what does DNA tell us about why autism differs in each person? The SPARK study has answers.

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How to Find the Right College for Autistic Students
How to Find the Right College for Autistic Students

Students across the autism spectrum can attend college, whether they have a traditional high school diploma or not. How can you find the right program?

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WEBINARS

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Upcoming
Robin Kochel, Ph.D.

Robin Kochel, Ph.D.

Webinar: Autism Research 101-How You Can Influence What We Know About Autism

October 28, 2024

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Lauren Bishop, Ph.D., and Lindsay Shea, Dr.PH.

Lauren Bishop, Ph.D., and Lindsay Shea, Dr.PH.

Webinar: The Role of Medicaid and Medicare for Care Access among Aging Autistic Adults

September 26, 2024

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CONTACT US