Sarah Foster

Sarah Foster is a Psychology researcher and PhD student at The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), where she works in The Social Cognition and Interaction in Autism Lab under Dr. Noah Sasson. Her research focuses on perceptions of autism formed by social partners, with particular emphasis on reducing bias between autistic and non-autistic individuals.

Foster holds a BS in Psychology from Salem State University and an MA in Human Development and Child Studies from Tufts University. She was drawn to UTD specifically for its research program that aligned with her values and interest in supporting autistic people through a social-ecological lens.

As a lead Research Assistant in Dr. Sasson's lab, Foster oversees study protocols and data collection procedures, where participants complete questionnaires and emotion/behavioral tasks. Her work compares data from autistic and non-autistic participants to better understand social interactions. She is particularly noted for her conscientious approach to research ethics and her commitment to ensuring participants feel valued and respected during studies.