ANSWER
ANSWER Leadership
Autistic and Neurodivergent Scholars Working for Equity in Research (ANSWER), recently established as part of the Autism Intervention Network on Physical Health (AIR-P), is currently forming to serve as an innovative model for how autistic and non-autistic autism researchers can effectively work together. ANSWER is a group of autistic and neurodivergent researchers at various points in our careers as academics, lecturers, and consultants. This gives us a unique perspective as both scientists and lived-experience experts, with which to assess the merit of the proposed research projects and their relevance to improving the lives of autistic people.
The mission of the AIR-P ANSWER is to support and empower autistic researchers in their efforts to lead research on autism, promote health and well-being for autistic individuals, and build community and collaborations between neurotypes within and beyond the AIR-P Network. This mission recognizes the valuable contributions that autistic researchers can make to advancing our understanding of autism and improving the lives of autistic individuals. It seeks to provide the resources and support needed for autistic researchers to succeed in their work.
Thank you to all who submitted an application for ANSWER leadership positions. The application period has now closed.
For questions or concerns, kindly email Heather Brown (heather2@ualberta.ca) and Zachary Williams (zachary.j.williams@vanderbilt.edu).
Information about each team is listed below: