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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

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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Autism and the College Experience
Autism and the College Experience

Many students struggle to adjust to the challenges of college, from difficult classes to dorm living. But for people on the autism spectrum, the transition can be more abrupt and dramatic.

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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
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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Jessica Wright, Ph.D.

Jessica Wright, Ph.D.

Webinar: What SPARK is Learning from Returning Genetic Results to Participants with Autism

August 15, 2024

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