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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

Surprising News for Two Members of a SPARK Family
Surprising News for Two Members of a SPARK Family

When a mother and her autistic son sent DNA samples to the SPARK study, they had no reason to suspect that they would both get genetic news.

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Project Seeks to Unlock the Mysteries of Sleep for Autistic Youth
Project Seeks to Unlock the Mysteries of Sleep for Autistic Youth

At least half of autistic children have trouble sleeping. The Simons Sleep Project has found an advanced way to study sleep while children are in their own homes.

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Your Questions About Autism, Answered
Your Questions About Autism, Answered

You or your child has just been diagnosed with autism. You have questions. SPARK has answers.

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WEBINARS

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Upcoming
Eileen Crehan, Ph.D.

Eileen Crehan, Ph.D.

Webinar: Love and Autism-Building Connections in Affirming Ways

June 25, 2025

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Sumithra Murthy, Ph.D.

Sumithra Murthy, Ph.D.

Webinar: Needs of Caregivers of People with Disabilities in the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community

May 29, 2025

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CONTACT US