Flinders University in South Australia has received a substantial funding boost for its Autism Research Laboratory, totalling nearly $850,000. The funds will be used to launch a new ‘Autism Research Initiative,’ backed by a significant $500,000 donation from an anonymous benefactor, supported by contributions from the university itself. This initiative aims to enhance research and educational capacities pertaining to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The primary goal of this initiative is to establish a global centre for autism research. It is set to foster global partnerships among academia, healthcare systems, industry, and autistic communities. The drive towards international collaboration is intended to promote and enhance research outcomes and educational programs focusing on autism.
Professor Robyn Young, a leading academic from the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work at Flinders, chairs the laboratory. She highlighted the initiative’s potential to aid the autistic community considerably. “This new initiative represents a significant step forward in helping support the autistic community, their families and the wider community,” stated Professor Young. She emphasised that the aim is to delve deeper into groundbreaking research and develop more effective, evidence-based strategies to assist those affected by autism.
The funding will spur on various aspects of autism research, particularly in developing innovative solutions for early detection and improving identification among autistic women. It will also expand insights into associated conditions such as eating disorders, trauma, and further help autistic people navigate the criminal justice system.
As autism becomes increasingly diagnosed worldwide, Professor Young pointed out that these efforts are critical.
Autism is one of the most prevalent, serious neurodevelopmental disorders which affects the brain’s growth and development. It is a lifelong condition, with symptoms appearing in early childhood, and is increasingly being diagnosed. It can be characterised by difficulty in social communication; difficulty in social interaction; and restricted or repetitive behaviours and interests.
Professor Young’s engagement with autism research began with her PhD focus on savant syndrome, notably featured in the ABC documentary ‘Uncommon Genius.’ She has since contributed significantly to the field, developing early detection tools and intervention programs aimed at better supporting individuals with autism and their families.
The launch of this initiative is also a strategic move to strengthen the university’s application capabilities for external grants, thereby seeding further research projects and supporting higher degree research students in their academic pursuits.
Professor Young says, “Importantly, this initiative represents a significant step forward in allowing us to dive further into life-changing research and develop more evidence-based approaches that will improve outcomes for autism.”
“We are extremely grateful to the donor of $500,000 which will have a large and lasting impact in improving the lives of autistic people.
“The generous donation along with Flinders’ funding will allow us to coordinate our research, apply for grants for other projects and support our higher degrees student to conduct their research.”
For more information on the Autism Research Laboratory head to https://www.flinders.edu.au/research/facilities/autism-research-laboratory
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