If you’re looking to contribute to autism research or access new resources, now is a great time to get involved. Across the United States, top research institutions are recruiting autistic individuals — and in some cases, their families — for innovative studies that aim to better understand, support, and empower the autism community. Whether you’re interested in brain imaging, behavioral therapies, biomarkers, or new treatment approaches, here are several current autism research projects accepting participants:

Stanford University Autism Research Program (California)

Focus: Brain imaging, behavior, and treatment interventions
 Studies Recruiting:

• N-acetyl cysteine trial for reducing repetitive behaviors

• Sleep patterns in autistic children

• Vasopressin nasal spray for improving social skills

• Neuroimaging predictors of language response in toddlers
   Ages: 2 to 17

 Contact: autismresearch@stanford.edu

SPARK for Autism (Nationwide)

Focus: Genetics and family traits in autism
 Details:
 SPARK is the largest autism study in the U.S., aiming to understand the role of genetics and environment. Participation is remote and includes saliva kits for DNA analysis.
 Who Can Join: Individuals with an autism diagnosis and their parents/siblings

Website: www.sparkforautism.org

UC San Diego Autism Center of Excellence (California)

Focus: Early intervention and neurodevelopment
 Current Studies:

• Parent-based telehealth interventions for children aged 6–12

• Executive function training in autistic youth

• Developmental biomarkers in early childhood

 Contact: Visit autism-center.ucsd.edu

Seaver Autism Center at Mount Sinai (New York)

Focus: Genetics, cognition, and medication trials
 Who They’re Recruiting: Children, teens, and adults with autism for free diagnostic evaluations and paid studies
 
Location: New York City
 More info: seaverautismcenter.org

Boston Children’s Hospital Autism Research Programs (Massachusetts)

Focus: Social and cognitive development, gender identity, and co-occurring conditions
 Ages: Infants through adolescents
 Examples:

• Early diagnosis studies (12–36 months)

• Gaming-based social skill development (7–11 years)

• Gender exploration in autistic youth (8–17 years)

Contact: isp@childrens.harvard.edu

Simons Searchlight (National)

Focus: Rare genetic conditions associated with autism
 Participation: Online registration and genetic data submission
 Goal: Accelerate rare disease research and connect families

 Learn more: www.simonssearchlight.org

University of Washington — PEERS for Teens & Young Adults

Focus: Social skills training for autistic adolescents and young adults
 Format: Some virtual options available
 
Location: Seattle, with remote opportunities
 More info: depts.washington.edu/uwautism

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Focus: Brain development, mental health, and behavior
 Participation: Travel covered for some in-person studies in Maryland
 
Find studies at: www.clinicaltrials.gov — search “autism AND recruiting AND United States”

Tips for Getting Involved:

• Check eligibility: Age, diagnosis type, location, and medical history all matter.

• Ask about compensation: Many studies offer stipends or travel reimbursement.

• Informed consent: You’ll always receive detailed info before agreeing to participate.

• Follow up: Even if you’re not eligible now, ask to be notified about future studies.

Conclusion
Research isn’t just about advancing science — it’s about changing lives. By participating in autism studies, you can help shape a better future for individuals on the spectrum and access valuable resources and support along the way. Whether you’re a parent, teen, or adult on the spectrum, there’s a study out there that could benefit from your voice.