Autism Science Foundation offers grant for breakthrough research

The Autism Science Foundation (ASF) has launched a new round of grants to support research on profound autism—individuals with severe cognitive and communication challenges who require lifelong support.

Contents

Priority areas Funding details Who can apply Partnership with advocacy groups Application requirements Deadline

The call is open to both early-career and established researchers dedicated to improving understanding and quality of life for those most deeply affected by autism.

Priority areas

The programme aims to identify and address the unique biological, behavioural and medical needs of individuals with profound autism.

Proposed studies may explore underlying causes, potential treatments, barriers to data collection, co-occurring conditions or challenging behaviours. The initiative seeks to fill critical gaps in current autism research and expand real-world impact.

Funding details

Two categories of awards are available:

Pilot Grant: Up to $35,000 for one year to support research supplies, salary or consulting costs.
Pre-Doctoral Fellowship: $35,000 for one year to support salary and fringe benefits for graduate or medical students.

Funds may not be used for tuition or indirect institutional costs.

Who can apply

● Applicants based in the U.S. or abroad.
● Pilot Grant: Open to individuals with an M.D., Ph.D., Ed.D., or Sc.D. employed by a university, research institution or 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
● Pre-Doctoral Fellowship: Open to graduate or medical students pursuing research doctorates or dual degrees under the supervision of a qualified mentor.

All applicants must include a letter of support from an advocacy organisation working in profound autism.

Partnership with advocacy groups

Applicants are expected to collaborate with advocacy organisations such as the Profound Autism Alliance, the National Council on Severe Autism or members of AGENDA.

These partners help shape study design, recruitment and real-world applicability. Pre-doctoral applicants must also submit an additional recommendation letter sent directly to ASF.

Application requirements

Applications must include a title page, lay and scientific abstracts, a research and analysis plan, a bibliography, a budget and justification, biosketches, and the required advocacy letter. Pre-doctoral applicants must also submit a detailed training plan outlining mentorship, professional development, and institutional support. All materials must be compiled into a single PDF and submitted via email.