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Developing Interventions for Subgroups Within the Autism Spectrum
Dr. Lauren Franz spent a year studying autism among isiZulu speakers in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province as a Fogarty International Fellow. The experience shaped her own career trajectory and how we implement autism screening and services in multi-cultural and low-resource communities.
Designing an AI-based Autism Screening Tool with Users in Mind
Why We Did This StudyEarly identification of autism can help children and families access evaluation, services, and support sooner. Pediatricians routinely screen toddlers for autism during 18- and 24-month well-child visits using a caregiver questionnaire called the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F). While this screening tool is helpful, researchers are developing new digital approaches to improve the consistency and accuracy of early autism identification.
Autism Psychology Intern Presented with Professionalism Award
Caitlin Bullard, PhD, was awarded the Karen C. Wells, PhD Professionalism Award for the outstanding professionalism, ethics, and compassion she demonstrated as a 2025-2026 Duke clinical psychology doctoral intern, where she focused on autism. The award is presented to a graduating intern and the recipient is selected by the graduating intern class.
Employee Spotlight: Alex Bey, MD, PhD
Alex Bey, a career in autism research and child psychiatry grew from a lifelong interest in science, a love of learning, and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.