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Research Participation Opportunities

Participate in Research

Looking to help advance the future of autism research? Studies at the cutting edge of improving the quality of life for autistic people are happening right now — and these studies would be nowhere without participants.

Here, you will find opportunities to get involved in research studies. Browse through the opportunities to find the ones that are looking for someone like you or your child.

Research studies funded by OAR’s Applied Research Competition or Graduate Research Grant Competition will be denoted with a sun icon

Please note that OAR staff is not directly involved with any of the studies; for any questions, please contact the researchers directly.

Are you a researcher seeking participants for your study? Click here to let us know.

Fostering Friendships Between Autistic and Allistic Children

Using LBBIs to Foster Friendships Between Autistic and Allistic Children

Researcher

Sara Pepkin Dataram & Dr. Kelli Cummings

Institution

University of Maryland, College Park

Who can participate

Autistic children in grades 6-8

Location

Remotely – more information provided

Description

My name is Sara, and I’m a doctoral candidate at the University of Maryland, College Park. I am reaching out because I’m working on my dissertation. The goal of my project is to develop and implement a social skills intervention that fosters friendships between children with autism and their neurotypical peers.

We are seeking parents of autistic children who think their child would be interested in participating in a focus group.

Contact

For more information, please contact Sara Dataram at spepkin@umd.edu.

Deadline

Sepetember 30 2023

Teaching Menstrual Care Skills to Individuals with Autism.

Effects of an Animated Video Prompting Intervention on Teaching Menstrual Care Skills to Individuals with Autism.

Researcher

Molly Oshinski, Terry Falcomata, & Monique Barnett

Institution

The University of Texas at Austin

Who can participate

Autistic adolescents and Adults, pre-pubescent or post-pubescent, are about to begin their period or have had their period. Must be able to attend to a video model and open items.

Location

Remotely – contact for more information

Description

We are seeking participants for a dissertation at The University of Texas. The study is teaching menstrual care skills to individuals with autism using an animated video-model. This study is offered via telehealth if you are not in the Austin area!

Contact

Feel free to email us at moshinski@utexas.edu for more information

Deadline

October 1, 2023

Biomarkers Panel to Improve Autism Diagnostic Processes

Validating a Biomarker Panel to Improve Autism Diagnostic Processes

Researcher

Merle May

Institution

Healios

Who can participate

UK and US parents and children aged 5 to 11; eligibility will be assessed via a short screening survey (see links below)

Location

Remotely. For the US, use this link to participate. For the UK, use this link to participate.

Description

Could you spare a few minutes to help us improve autism services for children across the globe?

Healios is a company with a mission to improve the accessibility of mental health and neurodevelopmental services for those who need them. We’re looking for parents and children aged 5 to 11 to take part in a simple online study that could pioneer improvements in the autism diagnostic process. The study is fully remote and only requires a smartphone and internet connection. By taking part, you’ll be helping to improve the lives of millions of children and young people worldwide. Over five million US citizens are autistic, and some wait up to four years to receive a diagnosis. This delay can have severe repercussions on their health and quality of life. Our research will help to improve the process.

How it works

Step one: Complete a short three-minute survey
Step two: Our team will be in touch if you can take part
Step three: If eligible, you will be invited to complete the research, which will involve the young person completing fun tasks on a mobile app and answering a few questions about your child
Step four: Once completed, you will be paid at a rate of $20 per hour for your time as a thank you

Contact

If you are interested in this, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be more than happy to provide further information and discuss this further. For more information about who we are, please contact us here.

Deadline

May 31, 2024

Digital Training Package to Teach Play Skills

Developing a Digital Training Package to Teach Play Skills to Caregivers of Children with Autism

Researcher

Kendra Guinness & Edward Feil

Institution

Oregon Research Institute

Who can participate

Caregivers of children with autism (ages 2.5 years-7 years)

Location

Remotely

Description

Researchers at the Oregon Research Institute (ORI) are testing a new online tool to help caregivers play with their children with autism.You are eligible to participate in this research study if:1. You are a caregiver (living with at least half of the time) of a child with autism2. You are at least 18 years old3. Child is between 2.5 and 7 years of age4. You can speak and understand English5. You have reliable Internet access in your homeReceive up to $240 in gift cards as a thank-you for participating!

Contact

For more information or if you are interested in participating, complete the following screening questionnaire  or email justplay@ori.org

Deadline

November 1, 2023

Effects of Identity on Masking Behavior

Effects of Identity on Masking Behavior

Researcher

Maura O’Sullivan & Dr. Patrick Harrison

Institution

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Who can participate

Autistic adults (18+) living in the United States who do not have a diagnosis of Intellectual Disability

Location

Remotely

Description

Are you an autistic adult? If so, how often do you hide your autistic traits? If you are a formally diagnosed or self-diagnosed autistic adult living in the United States, you may be able to take part in this research study about masking and its effect on the well-being of autistic adults. Participants can opt into a drawing for one of eight $25 VISA gift cards.

Contact

If you are interested in this study, please contact Maura O’Sullivan
at mosullivan1@unc.edu.

Deadline

December 9, 2023

Sibling-implemented Video Prompting

Sibling-implemented Video Prompting for Children and Youth with Autism

Researcher

Veronica Kang, Gulnoza Yakubova, and Elnaz Safarha

Institution

University of Maryland, College Park

Who can participate

Families with 3- to 17-year-old children or youth with autism and their sibling, who is either (a) 5-12 years old and older than the autistic child/youth; OR, (b) 13-17 years old and older or younger than the autistic child/youth.

Location

Remote (Zoom and Online Survey).

Description

Researchers at the University of Maryland at College Park are looking for 3- to 17-year-old children or youth with autism and their sibling, who is either (a) 5-12 years old and older than the autistic child/youth; OR (b) 13-17 years old and older or younger than the autistic child/youth, to participate in a sibling-collaborative video-based learning support for everyday skills.

The research study will take place via Zoom for 3 months. Sessions can be scheduled 2-3 times/week following the order below.
• 5-minute initial questionnaire
• 5-10 minutes observation of the child/youth engaging in the everyday skills for 1-2 weeks
• 20-minute training for sibling to use video-based learning for 2-3 weeks
• 20-minute session for review, observation, and feedback for child/youth and sibling for 3-4 weeks
• 5-minute observation of the child/youth engaging in the everyday skills for 1-3 times after the training.
• 5-minute survey for caregiver & 10-minute Zoom session with child/youth and sibling for feedback

All sessions will be video-recorded, and permission to video record is required for participation. Families will receive a $25 Amazon gift card after completing all parts of the research.

If you meet the following criteria and are interested to learn more about the study, please contact Veronica Kang at vkang@umd.edu.

● You are a caregiver of an autistic child/youth of ages 3 to 17 years who can listen to or understand English appropriate for children or youth (age 3-17).
● You are also a caregiver of an older sibling to the autistic child, who ages between 5 to 17 years old AND older than the child with autism. This sibling should have age-appropriate language, be interested in playing with their brother/sister following 2-step directions and have used a tablet or mobile device to watch videos.
● You are 18 years or older and a legal guardian or caregiver of both autistic child/youth and the sibling.
● You are available to set up Zoom for each research session 2-3 times/week for 3 months and to participate in a role-play activity for 5 minutes with the sibling 2-3 times/week for 2-4 weeks during the training phase.

Contact

If you have met prior criteria and are interested to learn more about the study, please contact Veronica Kang at vkang@umd.edu.

Deadline

December 30, 2023

Facial Expression and Gaze

Study of the Facial Expression and Gaze of Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder

Researcher

Megan Witherow, Janice Keener, Psy.D., John Harrington, M.D., and Khan Iftekharuddin, Ph.D.

Institution

Old Dominion University

Who can participate

Children and young adults diagnosed with autism, ages 8-20, with access to an Internet-connected personal computer and webcam

Location

Remote (Zoom).

Description

The Vision Lab at Old Dominion University is currently looking for volunteers ages 8 – 20 years old who have been diagnosed with autism for an online IRB-approved research study conducted in collaboration with Eastern Virginia Medical School. Participants interact with the researchers on Zoom and play a video game related to facial expressions while a webcam captures their reactions. As a small token of our appreciation for taking part in the study, all participants receive a $10 gift card.

Contact

If you would like to learn more about the Vision Lab at ODU, please visit our website: https://sites.wp.odu.edu/VisionLab/.

Please email mwith010@odu.edu or call (757)297-1453 if you or your child is interested in participating.

Deadline

December 31, 2023

Exploring Positive and Negative Dimensions (EXPAND)

Exploring Positive and Negative Dimensions in ASD (EXPAND)

Researcher

Jennifer Foss-Feig & Carla Mazefsky

Institution

University of Pittsburgh REAACT Center

Who can participate

Families with autistic children ages 3-11.

Location

Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai and University of Pittsburgh

Description

​Led by Dr. Jennifer Foss-Feig at Mt. Sinai, Dr. Mazefsky and her colleagues will develop and validate an observer-report measure of positive and negative features of autism. This assessment study is designed to create a measure of autism symptoms for parents of children ages 3-11.

The overall objective of this proposal is to use gold-standard procedures to develop and validate a new measure to quantify variability within autism along novel and biological dimensions that can concretely be targeted for intervention and measurably show change.

EXPAND is actively seeking families with children ages 3-11. To find out more and to see if you qualify, please contact autismrecruiter@upmc.edu or 1-866-647-3436.

Contact

If you have any questions or are interested, please email autismrecruiter@upmc.edu.

Deadline

December 31, 2023

Self-Care and Quality of Life in Parents

Predicting Self-Care and Quality of Life in the Context of Parenting a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Researcher

Sarah Dacey & Scott Gaynor, PhD

Institution

Western Michigan University

Who can participate

​Parents (birth, foster, adoptive) of children (of any age) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who are currently receiving applied behavior analysis (ABA) services from a community-based treatment provider will be eligible to participate. Participants must be able to read and write in English, have access to a computer or mobile device with internet, must be over the age of 18, and reside in the United States.

Location

Remotely

Description

Western Michigan University psychology researchers are currently seeking parents of autistic individuals/individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who are receiving applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment to participate in a study. Participants will complete a survey aimed at understanding factors that contribute to parental quality of life and self-care. Please see attached flyer for more information and consider sharing it with anyone in your network who may qualify.

Contact

If you have any questions or are interested, please email sarah.a.dacey@wmich.edu.

Deadline

December 31, 2023

Considering Trauma During Psychotherapy

Considering Trauma During Psychotherapy with Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Researcher

Anita Barrows, Ph.D. & Jessica Chelsky, M.A.

Institution

The Wright Institute

Who can participate

Licensed clinicians – Must have provided psychotherapy within the past 10 years to at least one child client under the age of 13 who had a professional diagnosis of ASD and had experienced a traumatic event(s)

Location

Remotely – Zoom link to be provided

Description

My name is Jessica Chelsky, MA, and I am currently a clinical psychology doctoral student at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA. I am conducting a study on the experience of considering trauma during psychotherapy with child clients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This study will address clinicians’ current assessment and treatment considerations regarding trauma with a vulnerable population. The study will consist of a 60-90 minute individual interview over the HIPPA compliant version of Zoom. As a thank you, each participant will receive a $20 Amazon gift card after completing the interview.

To be eligible for this study you:

– Must have provided psychotherapy within the past 10 years to at least one child client under the age of 13 who had a professional diagnosis of ASD and had experienced a traumatic event(s)
– Must have been licensed while providing psychotherapy with this client
– Have access to reliable internet for a 60-90 minute Zoom interview

Benefits of your participation:

– Each participant will receive a $20 Amazon gift card after completing the interview
– Be a part of important research exploring trauma-focused care for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Contact

If you, or someone you may know, may be interested in participating in this study, please reach out to jchelsky@wi.edu. Please forward this information to those who you feel may be interested and qualify for this study.

This dissertation project is chaired by Anita Barrows, PhD. who may be reached at abarrows@wi.edu if you have any questions or concerns.

Deadline

January 1, 2024

Identity Development and Wellbeing

Youth Autistic Identity Development and Wellbeing

Researcher

Looknoo Thammathorn, Abbey Eisenhower, and Ben Van Hook

Institution

University of Massachusetts Boston

Who can participate

Autistic youth ages 12-25 who have an awareness of their autism/ identify as being autistic. Participants can take part by speaking, typing, or AAC, based on their preference.

Location

Remotely and In-Person

Description

This study examines autistic youths’ perception of their autism identity, factors that impact this self-perception, and how autism identity is related to wellbeing. This study is conducted by non-autistic and autistic researchers.

In order to participate, the participant must meet all the following criteria:
1) be between the ages of 12-25 years old
2) have an awareness of their autism/ identify as being autistic
3) participants can take part in the interview via speaking, typing, or AAC, depending on their preference.

If your child (12-17 years old) is interested in participating in our study, please have a caregiver will fill out a 5-10 minute eligibility form. If the teen is 18 years, they can fill this form out themself. After the interview, participants will engage in a brief discussion about their strengths associated with autism and receive a resource about neurodiversity. Please click on this link: https://umassboston.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aWTwidKVx5231JA.

All eligible participants who complete the interview will receive a payment of $25 via Venmo or PayPal.

This project has been reviewed and approved by the University of Massachusetts Boston (3362).

Contact

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at p.thammathorn@umb.edu.

Deadline

January 1, 2024

Autistic Adult's Perspective on Genetic Testing

The Autistic Adult’s Perspective on Genetic Testing in the Prenatal and Cancer Settings

Researcher

Robin Urban

Institution

University of South Carolina Genetic Counseling

Who can participate

Autistic adults, 18 or older, with a medical or self-diagnosis of autism

Location

Remotely – https://uofsc.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cTpdI7M5Oxsv1zw

Description

Thank you for considering taking part in the study, Genetic Testing in the Prenatal and Cancer Settings- The Autistic Adult Perspective. This survey will contain multiple- choice, multi-select, and free response questions to better understand autistic adults’ views on genetic testing in the prenatal and cancer settings. This survey will take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.

You must be 18 years or older with an autism diagnosis to participate. Participation is completely voluntary, and you can choose to skip questions or end your participation at any time. All responses will be kept anonymous and confidential. Results of the study may be published or presented at academic meetings; however, participants will not be identified by personal information. This survey presents minimal risk to participants.

Contact

If you have any questions or are interested, please email us robin.urban@uscmed.sc.edu.

Deadline

January 1, 2024

Experiences of Parents of Autistic Children

Attitudes and Experiences of Parents of Children Diagnosed with Autism Toward Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Researcher

Alisha Fletcher

Institution

University of Pennsylvania

Who can participate

Parents of autistic children who have participated in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), ages 2-7

Location

Remotely – Virtual interviews

Description

Calling parents of children with autism who have participated in PCIT! This research seeks to understand the attitudes and experiences of parents of children with autism about PCIT. Virtual interviews will last approximately 1 hour and be scheduled at a time convenient for parents. Participants will receive an Amazon giftcard for their valued time and expertise. Click here for information.

Contact

If you are interested in this study, please contact Alisha Fletcher
at amelesky@upenn.edu.

Deadline

January 31, 2024

Predicting and Optimizing Language Outcomes

Predicting and Optimizing Language Outcomes in Minimally Verbal Autism Spectrum Disorder

Researchers

Helen Tager-Flusberg & Yanru Chen

Institution

Boston University

Who can participate

Autistic children & typically developing children, ages 3.5 – 6 years old

Location

In-person – Boston, MA, USA

Description

We at the Center for Autism Research Excellence (CARE) are currently enrolling interested families to participate in the Predicting and Optimizing Language Outcomes (POLO) research program. POLO aims to investigate different patterns of language development in young children. We are recruiting both neurotypically developing children and children with autism.

This research includes cognitive-behavioral testing, non-invasive brain testing with EEG, motor testing, and optional saliva collection for DNA testing. The first timepoint of the study can typically be completed in up to four (3-4 hour) visits to our Boston University location. Some children will be invited to return to our lab at 6 and 12 months after the first visit.

We offer compensation for every visit to our location as well as free parking and childcare for any sibling(s) who might attend.

Here at CARE, our work focuses on minimally verbal children on the autism spectrum. If you have any questions regarding this research or your child’s ability to participate, please feel free to email us at polo@bu.edu.

Contact

If you are interested in hearing more information, please use this link to provide your information and someone will be in touch shortly: https://www.bu.edu/autism/polo-o-screener-page/ .

Deadline

February 2, 2024

Virtual Group Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Format

Exploring Virtual Group Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Format on Participation of Parents of Children with Autism

Researcher

Christina Simmons, Ph.D., BCBA-D & Abigail Moretti

Institution

Rowan University

Who can participate

Parents of autistic children, ages 5-12, with co-occurring challenging behavior

Location

Remote via WebEx

Description

Are you looking to improve your own well-being alongside other parents of children with autism? Then this study may be for you!

Researchers at Rowan University are conducting a study examining how parents of children with autism prefer to participate in virtual parental well-being groups. Parents will be randomized into either a 6-hr workshop group, a 3-week group with 2-hr sessions once per week, or a 6-week group with 1-hr sessions once per week. The groups will target parental well-being, be entirely virtual, and will be scheduled based on participant availability. After the completion of the virtual group session(s), parents will receive two sessions of virtual parent training to learn skills to address their child’s challenging behavior.

Parents can participate if:– They are at least 18 years old– They have a child age 5-12 with autism and co-occurring challenging behavior– They speak English– They have access to a device with audio and video capabilities.– They can identify another adult to assist with participation

Contact

If you are interested in participating, please email the co-facilitator, Abigail Moretti, at morett94@rowan.edu to set up a phone screening.

Deadline

March 31, 2024

New Measure of Early Social Communication

Initial Validation of a New Measure of Early Social Communication

Researcher

Manisha Khatiwada

Institution

The Ohio State University

Who can participate

Autistic children, ages 2-6

Location

Remote and In-Person (Columbus, Ohio)

Description

The Ohio State University is conducting a research study to help improve a new measure of social communication for young children with autism.

You May be Eligible If:
· You child has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
· Your child is age 2-6 years
· You can complete this research study at our office in Columbus, OH or at your home if it is within 25 miles of Ohio State University

What is Involved?
• Child to participate in several play-based assessments of autism-related behaviors and an assessment of cognitive skills.
• A parent or guardian to fill out some information about the child, including information about child and family demographics, social and communication, daily living skills, and autism-related behaviors.
• We will also ask you and your child to participate in a brief play session together.

What will I receive if I participate?
· Parents/caregivers will receive a $50 Amazon.com gift card
· Children will receive a small toy for their participation
· Parking costs will be covered by the study

Contact

If you have any questions or are interested, please email Manisha Khatiwada at manisha.khatiwada@osumc.edu.

Deadline

April 20, 2024

Parent-Child Perceptions of Anxiety Symptoms

Emotional and Behavioral Functioning in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Researchers

Tammy Barry, Ph.D & Sarah Boland, M.S.

Institution

Washington State University

Who can participate

Parents over age 18 and autistic children ages 10-17

Location

Remotely

Description

Dear Families, Caregivers, and Professionals,

I am a graduate student at Washington State University in the psychology department. For my PhD program, I am conducting a study investigating the perceptions of emotional functioning of children with ASD and factors that may influence those perceptions. This research has been approved by the Washington State University Institutional Review Board. I am inviting caregivers and their children to participate.

You and your child may participate in the study if your child is between the ages of 10 and 17, has a formal diagnosis of autism, you are both fluent in English, and if you are the legal guardian of your child. Before participating in the study, you will need to fill out a consent form online and your child will need to complete an assent form online.

Participation in this research includes completing an online survey that will take about one hour to one and a half hours to complete. Your child will be asked to complete a Zoom-based assessment with the researcher using a standardized brief measurement of intelligence. You and your child will also be asked to complete a series of questionnaires assessing internalizing symptoms (e.g., depressive symptoms, anxiety) and other behavioral difficulties.

You and your child may be asked to partake in two Zoom-based joint psychoeducational sessions facilitated by a trained clinician. Three to four weeks later, you and your child will complete the questionnaires again. The study should take about 2-4 hours to complete, across 2-4 zoom sessions (depending on the results of your initial study visit and randomly assigned condition). After study completion, your family will be compensated with a $50 Amazon gift card. Gift cards will be delivered either electronically via your email or physically mailed to your home, depending on your preference.

Contact

If you have any questions or would like to participate in the research, I can be reached at sarah.boland@wsu.edu.

Deadline

May 1, 2024

Parental Accommodation in ASD

Parental Accommodation in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Researchers

Molly Ludlow & Melanie Wadkins

Institution

Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology – Yeshiva University

Who can participate

Parents of children with Autism between the ages of 5 and 18

Location

Remotely 

Description

The Ferakuf Anxiety Lab is conducting research on parental accommodation in ASD. If you or someone you know has a child with ASD between the ages of 5 and 18, please consider participating in this study. A $2 donation to Autism Speaks will be made in honor of your participation and you will be providing the scientific community with valuable information about ASD. This research project was reviewed and received an exempt determination by WCG IRB. Thanks in advance for your time and consideration!

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact Molly Ludlow
at mludlow@mail.yu.edu.

Deadline

May 24, 2024

Home-based Study of Sleep in ASD

Home-based Study of Sleep in ASD

Researcher

Dara Manoach, Ph.D. & Lindsey Woodham

Institution

Massachusetts General Hospital

Who can participate

Autistic children/teens, aged 12-18, without a diagnosed sleep disorder (except insomnia)

Location

Remotely

Description

We are seeking participants for a research project titled “Home-based study of sleep in ASD.” We want to measure differences in brain rhythms in children/teens with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder during overnight sleep at home using a wearable sleep headband device. Measuring sleep rhythms at home allows us to study more people over longer periods of time to learn more about sleep, which may help us develop treatments for sleep difficulties in the future.

Participants will receive up to $140 for completing all study activities.

Contact

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Lindsey Woodham via email.

Deadline

7/31/2024

Help-Seeking Experiences of Autism Caregivers

Understanding the Help-Seeking Experiences of Asian American Caregivers of Children with Autism: A Qualitative Study

Researcher

Amani Khalil, M.S. Ed.

Institution

Purdue University

Who can participate

Primary caregivers of a child ( age 3-17) with ASD. Caregivers must be over the age of 18 and 1) identify as Asian or Asian American, 2) speak fluent English, and 3) reside in the United States

Location

Remotely – bit.ly/3quutu3

Description

We are seeking interview participants for the research titled “Understanding the Help-Seeking Experiences of Asian American Caregivers of Children with Autism: A Qualitative Study”

The purpose of this research study is to learn about the healthcare barriers Asian and Asian American caregivers/ parents experience in accessing an autism diagnosis and autism treatment services specially within the U.S. healthcare system. Our results will aim to address how we can create culturally competent autism services and ultimately how we can close the delayed autism diagnosis and intervention services that Asian American children with autism often experience.

If you are a primary Asian American caregiver caring for a child diagnosed with Autism age (3-17) please consider participating in an online interview on your experiences navigating Autism treatment and supports for your child. If selected for an interview you will be compensated with a $25 Amazon gift card upon completion of an online interview.

To qualify for the study, you must:

  • Be a primary caregiver of a child diagnosed with Autism ages (3-17)
  • Identify as an Asian American
  • Be 18 years or older
  • Speak fluent English
  • Currently reside in the U.S.

If you are interested in the study, please fill out a brief interest and demographic survey below.

https://bit.ly/3quutu3

Contact

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to PRFLab@Purdue.edu,

Amani Khalil, M.S. Ed., KhalilA@Purdue.edu, or

Xiang Zhou, xiangzhou@purdue.edu

Deadline

August 11, 2024

Monitor and Track Adverse Events in Autism Interventions

Developing a Tool to Monitor and Track Adverse Events in Psychosocial Autism Interventions

Researcher

Manisha Khatiwada

Institution

The Ohio State University

Who can participate

Participants may be autistic adults, parents/caregivers of young autistic children (under 7 years), and/or service/therapy providers for young autistic children (under 7 years) who are:

  • at least 18 years old
  • have access to a computer, laptop, or other electronic device with Zoom capabilities
  • live in the United States
Location

Remotely via Zoom

Description

Are you an autistic person, parent of a young autistic child, or service provider for autistic children? If so, you may be eligible to participate in an online Focus Group Research Study!

The Ohio State University is conducting a study to learn more about the experiences of autistic children and their families participating in early intervention and other psychosocial therapy services.

Contact

Manisha Khatiwada – khat21@osumc.edu

Deadline

August 30, 2024

Flexible Thinking Study

Flexible Thinking Study

Researcher

Dr. Erin Kang

Institution

Montclair State University

Who can participate

typically-developing children or children diagnosed or with suspected autism, aged 6-17 years old

Location

Montclair, New Jersey, USA

Description

Researchers at Montclair State University are looking for families with children and adolescents 6-17 years old that are typically developing or have/are suspected to have autism spectrum disorder to participate in an in-person study on how children switch their thinking and attention between tasks. We hope to better understand flexible thinking patterns and how they relate to social and emotional development. Participating families will receive a $50.00 gift card for completing this study.

Contact

Montclair State University Autism and Neurodevelopment Lab at 973-655-3615 or email at erinkanglab@montclair.edu.

Deadline

August 31, 2024

Cultural Aspects of Sexuality and Relationships

Cultural Aspects of Sexuality and Relationship Education Measure Development

Researcher

Xihan Yang

Institution

Tufts University

Who can participate

Autistic adults, ages 18-35

Location

Online or In Person

Description

Researchers at Tufts University are recruiting autistic adults to develop a measure to understand the cultural aspects of sexuality and relationship education (SRE) received by autistic population in the U.S. Participants will be invited to fill out an online survey, then take part in a Zoom interview lasting about 45-60 minutes. Participants will be compensated with $25 e-gift card.You will be eligible to participate in this study if you:– age 18 or older– are autistic– can communicate and read in English– able to make consent for studies individually (no legal representatives)– willing to share your previous experiences in sexuality and relationship educationIf you are interested in participating, please fill out this preliminary questionnaire:https://tufts.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2oyeHwHtHWylZEG.If you’re eligible, we’ll reach out within a week with an invitation to be interviewed.

Contact

Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions: crehanlab@tufts.edu.

Deadline

August 31, 2024

Meanings of Autism & Work

Meanings of Autism & Work

Researcher

Jun Hwan Kim, Brandon Snel, Aashima Sarin (medical students); Jacob Krehbiel (autistic community research assistant)

Institution

Michigan State University

Who can participate

Autistic people in mid-Michigan, Kent, and Ottawa counties ages 14+; professionals and advocates in mid-Michigan, Kent, and Ottawa counties

Location

Remotely and In Person

Description

We are looking for participants to take part in a study about autism and employment. We are recruiting autistic people (with or without a diagnosis) ages 14 and older, as well as professionals and advocates who work in the area of autism and employment. All participants will have the opportunity to participate in an interview. Autistic people will also have the opportunity to take photos of work and invite a researcher to “shadow” them at their job. The lead researcher is Ariel Cascio, Ph.D., Center for Bioethics & Social Justice. To take part or ask questions, contact (616) 287-0336 or casciome@msu.edu.

Contact

If you have questions or would like to participate, contact (616) 287-0336 or casciome@msu.edu.

Deadline

March 31, 2025

Work Chat: An Interactive Virtual Workday

Work Chat: An Interactive Virtual Workday

Researcher

Matthew Smith, Connie Sung, and Shaun Eack

Institution

University of Michigan

Who can participate

Autistic Adults ages 18 and older with at least a 4th grade reading level

Location

Remotely

Description

The University of Michigan Level Up: Employment Skills Simulation Lab has partnered with the autism community since 2019 to develop a gameified computer program called Work Chat: A Virtual Workday and we are looking for help from autistic adults to help us evaluate WorkChat. Work Chat is designed to be a typical work day experience in a virtual gaming world to practice with conversations with virtual customers, coworkers, and supervisors. If you join the study, you will complete some surveys and assessments, and then you will be randomly selected to use the Work Chat program now or you will be selected to use Work Chat later.
If you are eligible, both groups can earn up to $215 for participating. Participation is completely voluntary. We have a consent form that will provide more details if you are interested.

Contact

If you you have questions or would like to participate, please the link in this ad or email our research team at: work-chat@umich.edu.

Deadline

August 29, 2025

Recruit Participants

If you are seeking participants for a study, you are invited to submit the form below.

Please fill out the following form to share your research participant opportunity. Once your submission is received, OAR will get in touch with you about listing your study on this page.

In order to be considered, your study must:

  • Focus on quality-of-life research for autistic people.
  • Be approved by the IRB (or an equivalent oversight body for studies conducted outside of the USA).

If you submit the form but do not see a confirmation message appear on the screen, please contact us to confirm that the form went through.

If you do not receive an email response within a few days of submitting your request, please contact us to confirm that we received your form.