David Akinsooto has been with the Autism Center since 2023 and has been an essential member of the COMET and HERO study teams, as well as the broader center. Originally from Pittstown New Jersey, David is the middle child, with two autistic siblings. Growing up, he always wanted to understand what made him and his siblings so different. So, when he attended Swarthmore College in 2019, he double majored in Neuroscience and Economics. With courses in Neuroscience, David was able to explore the biological basis of neurodevelopmental disorders, and through his Economics courses, he was able to learn how to apply mathematical models to psychological constructs such as behavioral decisions.
While in College, David was an NCAA Varsity lacrosse player, and worked as a lacrosse coach and bartender. He graduated in 2023, before starting at the Autism Center. Since starting at the center, David has attended various volunteer events and serves as a co-lead for the Duke Taskforce for Racial Equity Professional Development sub-committee. He is a dedicated and astute colleague and his love for engaging with participants and their families shows in every interaction. David has plans to attend graduate school to eventually become a physician scientist, with a research focus in developmental neuroscience, of which, we are certain he will succeed! So, if you see David around the center, please take a minute to thank him for all of the wonderful work he does – Thank you David!