SPARK for Autism

Advisors

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Advisors

SPARK is committed to including diverse voices in every aspect of our research. We do this to ensure that our efforts improve the lives of the autism community based on scientific evidence. We work every day to further our study by listening to our participants, researchers, and the autism community. In addition, we rely on the following groups of advisors who focus on the improvement of the SPARK study.

A photo of a doctor speaking to an audienceSCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD

The SPARK Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) works to provide guidance on matters that directly concern the SPARK study. For example, they guide our research agenda, and help develop and mature strategies to recruit, engage, and retain participants. It is made up of a diverse group of advocates, parents, scientists, clinicians, and educators. Learn more…

COMMUNITY ADVISORY COUNCIL

The SPARK Community Advisory Council (CAC) ensures that the voice of our community is reflected in our work. We currently have 60 members from across the country with autistic adults, parents, and professionals who work in the autism community represented. Learn more…

A photograph of SPARK's DEI board and staff membersDIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION ADVISORY BOARD

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Advisory Board guides SPARK’s efforts to increase representation of communities of color in autism research. It is a diverse group of scientists, clinicians, and community leaders who provide guidance on strategies to build partnerships, increase awareness, and promote participation in research among underrepresented racial and ethnic communities. Learn more…

A photograph of SPARK's DEI board and staff membersPARTICIPANT ACCESS COMMITTEE

SPARK’s Participant Access Committee (PAC) reviews all applications submitted for SPARK Research Match to make sure that the studies that apply for Research Match and are approved have the potential to contribute to the understanding of autism. The committee also makes sure that the studies are sensitive to the needs of the community. The committee members work to ensure that the studies align with SPARK’s mission, that they do not overburden the participants, and that any incentives given to the participants, such as gift cards, take into account the amount of time that participants will spend and the study’s budget. Learn more…

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