SARRC’s Research Department is committed to identifying best practices for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screening, diagnosis, and intervention, but we cannot do it alone. We look to individuals impacted by autism and their families to participate in our current research projects. Our research program utilizes rigorous research methods and is informed by the needs, preferences, and values of the community that we serve. Note: A stipend may be provided to cover the cost of time and travel.
This study will examine if a new investigational medical device called the EarliPoint™ Evaluation for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), can be used to diagnose autism in children ages 31-84 months. The device detects the presence and severity of ASD and related developmental delays.
The EarliPoint™ Evaluation for ASD (the device) tracks where children are looking as they watch videos on a screen, which shows us how typically developing children and children with autism visually explore the world differently. This study is looking at whether the device can give comparable results to current diagnostic tests performed by clinicians.
UPDATE: Currently ONLY enrolling children without autism for comparison purposes.
SARRC is currently enrolling adults with autism ages 18 and older to participate in a study that aims to compare the outcomes of 100 autistic adults who are currently enrolled or who are graduates of the First Place Transition Academy in Phoenix. Participants will help our team improve programs, services and interventions for teens and adults with autism.
In the IRIS research study, we are looking to find out whether an investigational drug might improve the symptoms of ASD that often make social interaction challenging. To qualify, participants must be 12 to 17 years of age; have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a relative, housemate, friend, or another study partner to assist during the study, and attend clinic visits.
SARRC is currently enrolling individuals between the ages of 2.5-5 years with ASD in the Leucovorin Study to assess the efficacy of an investigational natural treatment known as Levoleucovorin in enhancing language and social communication skills in children diagnosed with ASD. The 16-week clinical trial will help our team learn more about language and social communication in children with autism.
The Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative is offering SPARK—an online, long-term study of genetics and autism. SPARK will collect and analyze genetic samples (saliva) from all participants to help autism researchers learn about genetic and non-genetic causes of autism. SPARK is open to all individuals with a professional diagnosis of autism, as well as their parents. Participation can take place either in your home via a mail-in kit or at SARRC.
We are currently enrolling individuals with autism, ages 12 to 65, who have a diagnosis of macrocephaly OR can provide documented head circumference data taken at any point after birth and before 24 months of age. This study aims to identify unique characteristics in individuals with autism through laboratory testing that potentially may lead to a more personalized approach to medicine.
