These research opportunities are listed as a courtesy to UF CARD constituents. Specific questions should be directed to the contact person listed for each study. Content is updated at least twice a year.
Research opportunity
Aging Well in ASD
The Neurocognitive and Behavioral Development lab seeks autistic adults and control individuals ages 30-75 for participation in a research study focused on healthy aging.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Pain Responsivity and Sensitivity in ASD
The Neurocognitive and Behavioral Development lab (NBD lab) is seeking autistic adults and controls between ages 30 to 75 years for a non-treatment research study on pain responsivity and sensitivity in ASD.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
VocFit Study
Researchers at the University of Florida are conducting a study to improve the Vocational Fit Assessment, a tool designed to help young adults, ages 18-22, with intellectual disabilities find a good job fit.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
PEDI PRO Study
A study developing a new self-report assessment software for kids, teens, and young adults with developmental disabilities.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Sleep Concerns?
The Behavior Analysis Research Clinic is evaluating sleep patterns and problem behavior in children.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Problem Behavior and Autism
If your child exhibits mild to moderate problem behavior and you would like us to evaluate the function of everyday consequences of that behavior, consider enrolling in our study!
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Teeth Grinding
Does your child grind their teeth during the day?
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Cooperation with Medical Procedures
This study is designed to evaluate the most effective ways to increase cooperation with medical procedures such as immunization shots or blood draws in individuals with autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Project PHoENIX
Participatory, Human-centered Equitable, Neurodiverse, and Inclusive XR seeks to engage in design-based research to create advanced virtual reality technology systems and tools which will enable inclusive research and development of immersive learning technologies in collaboration with autistic research participants.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Sensory Intervention in Boys with Autism
Help researchers understand and learn more about non-pharmacological interventions for children with ASD and how their brains use sensory information.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Disparities in ASD Identification and Services in the Early Years for Black Children
Help us understand how Black* children become identified with autism spectrum disorder.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
SPARK for Autism
Simons Foundation Powering Autism Research (SPARK) Online research partnership involving individuals with autism & their families, to speed up research & advance our understanding of autism. SPARK is sponsored by the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI).
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Barriers to ASD Genetic Survey
Researchers from the UF Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) would like to know your thoughts on ASD genetic testing.
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY
Brief Behavior Consultation
The UF Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment is conducting research on aiding families with early learners who are at-risk or recently diagnosed with ASD (ages 1-4).
Research Opportunity
Virtual Reality Museum Tour
Exciting opportunity to participate in a University of Florida study that will explore the potential of a VR museum tour to support inclusive events for
autistic people and their families, to enjoy all that museums have to offer!
Research Opportunity
Barriers to Medical and Dental Care
Researchers at the University of Florida Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment are seeking participants for a survey to identify possible barriers to medical and dental care for children with autism. The survey is completely anonymous and should only take 5-10 minutes. Approved by UF HRPP ID: 17034 Questions? Contact LLLOVERAS@ufl.edu
Pain Responsivity and Sensitivity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
The Neurocognitive and Behavioral Development lab (NBD lab) is seeking autistic adults and controls between ages 30 to 75 years for a non-treatment research study on pain responsivity and sensitivity in ASD.
Eligible individuals will be asked to complete the following tasks:
- Diagnostic screening and evaluation (autistic adults only)
- Thermal stimulation tasks
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) recording of the brain
- Pain and sensory questionnaires
Locations:
Tests are conducted at
- UF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (autistic adults only)
- Florida Gymnasium at the University of Florida main campus
Are you eligible?
- Between the ages of 30 to 75 years
- Received a diagnosis of ASD
- Meet our requirement as a control participant who never received a diagnosis of ASD
If you are unsure about your eligibility, please contact the study team.
Costs covered by this study include EEG, travel, and stipend
*This is a pilot study*
For more information contact:
NBD-LAB@UFL.EDU
352-294-5309
Zheng Wang, Ph.D., Principal Investigator
Neurocognitive and Behavioral Development lab (NBD lab)
University of Florida
Study ID:IRB202200413 Date Approved: 7/27/2022
Vocational Fit Assessment and Employment Status in People with Intellectual Disabilities
Goal: Explore the work-related experiences of people with intellectual disabilities.
Who can participate?
- Adults with intellectual disabilities, ages 18-22, currently engaged in work activities
- A person who knows them well and has been a part of their life for over a year (e.g., teacher, parent, job coach, employer)
Interview partners will:
- Provide background information on the adult with intellectual disability
- Talk about what they are good at or work history
How long with it take?
- Each interview will take approximately 2 hours
- There will be 3 interviews: now, in 12 months, and again in 24 months
- Questions will be given to participant partners two weeks before to allow more time for reading and preparation
- As a thank you gift, each participant partner will receive $40 for each interview (each partner can expect to receive $120)
For more information contact:
yell@phhp.ufl.edu
352-273-9365
Elizabeth Kennelly-Smith, Research Coordinator
Jessica Kramer, PhD, OTR/L, Associate Professor University of Florida
Department of Occupational Therapy
University of Florida
Protocol Number: 19-8656H
PEDI PRO Study
Help develop a new app that helps youth and young adults with disabilities speak up for their needs.
We are looking for teens and young adults:
- Ages 14-22
- With developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, or Down syndrome
- With intellectual disabilities
What will happen?
- Answer questions on the app.
- Your parent, guardian, or other adult will also answer some questions about you and your abilities.
- Meet with us one time.
- You can choose to do the study in a location that is safe and easy for you.
- After the meeting, you will receive a $30.00 gift card.
For more information contact:
yell@phhp.ufl.edu
352-273-9365
Elizabeth Kennelly-Smith, Research Coordinator
Jessica Kramer, PhD, OTR/L, Associate Professor University of Florida
Department of Occupational Therapy
University of Florida
This study is funded by a grant from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number R42HD090772
Study ID:IRB201903395 Date Approved: 11/19/2021
Sleep Concerns?
The Behavior Analysis Research Clinic (BARC) at the University of Florida is evaluating sleep patterns and problem behavior in children.
- Required that the child not co-sleep.
- Preferred that the child attends a clinic for ABA therapy, but not required.
- All sleep analyses conducted in the home.
For more information contact:
lloveras@ufl.edu
Lindsey Lloveras
Behavior Analysis Research Clinic
University of Florida
Problem Behavior and Autism
If your child exhibits mild to moderate problem behavior and you would like us to evaluate the function of everyday consequences of that behavior, consider enrolling in our study!
Individuals diagnosed with autism often exhibit problem behavior that is disruptive to themselves and others.
The purpose of the current investigation is to evaluate the function of common, everyday consequences of the problem behaviors of children with ASD.
Procedures will include brief, 5 to 10-minute sessions lasting no more than 30 minutes per day. Because all individuals have different problem behaviors, duration of participation will vary, but will terminate upon completion of the evaluation or after 2 months elapse.
You or your children may withdraw from the study at any time.
Participants will not receive compensation.
Location:
In person appointments at the UF Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment 1-3 times per week for a duration not to exceed 2 months.
Is your child eligible?
- Must have a diagnosis of autism.
- Must be between 3 and 18 years of age.
- Problem behavior must not be severe (e.g. head-directed self-injury; dangerous aggression)
For more information contact:
catherine.kishel@ufl.edu
352-273-2184
Catherine Kishel, M.Ed., BCBA, Study Coordinator
Behavior Analysis Research Clinic
University of Florida
Study ID: IRB202101280 Date Approved: 7/30/2021
Does Your Child Grind Their Teeth During the Day?
The Behavior Analysis Research Clinic is evaluating assessment and treatment strategies for teeth grinding while awake.
Requirements:
- Diagnosis of ASD
- Ages: 2-13 yrs
- Must engage in teethgrinding while awake
For more information contact:
tatesavannah@ufl.edu
Savannah Tate
Behavior Analysis Research Clinic
University of Florida
Study ID:IRB202000522 Date Approved: 6/16/2021
Cooperation with Medical Procedures
The Behavior Analysis Research Clinic is currently conducting a study designed to evaluate the most effective ways to increase cooperation with medical procedures such as immunization shots or blood draws in individuals with autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Must have a history of restraint, problem behavior, or noncomplicane in the context of medical procedures.
- Must be able to attend weekly or biweekly appointments at UF CAN.
Participants will not receive compensation.
For more information contact:
lloveras@ufl.edu
Lindsey Lloveras
Behavior Analysis Research Clinic
University of Florida
Study ID: IRB202102414
Project Phoenix
Help invent the future of virtual reality for people with autism by participating in a focus group study. You may be eligible to participate if you are an English-speaking adult and have autism, care for a person with autism, or provide services for people with autism. Compensation is provided.
Led and guided by Dr. Matthew Schmidt, Project PHoENIX is developed and implemented by a talented and diverse team at the alt.studio at the University of Florida.
For more information visit the Project PHoENIX website or contact:
matthew.schmidt@coe.ufl.edu
Dr. Matthew Schmidt
Educational Technology Program
School of Teaching and Learning
College of Education
University of Florida
Study ID:IRB202102310 Date Approved: 9/9/2022
Sensory Intervention in Boys with Autism
What’s the study about?
Greater than 80% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience sensory differences that make it difficult for them to fully participate in meaningful everyday activities. In this research study, we will use MRI and behavioral methods to assess how sensory interventions might change sensory brain structures, allowing us to better predict which sensory interventions might work best for whom.
What will happen in the study?
The study is for boys aged 6-8 years old diagnosed with autism by a physician, psychiatrist, neurologist, or psychologist. Over a 12-week period, families in the experimental group will attend intervention sessions twice a week. The intervention will be administered by a licensed Occupational Therapist and will include playing on swings, scooter boards, climbing equipment, bolsters, and large carpeted barrels. The 12-week sensory intervention may improve your child’s communication, reciprocal social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and/or restricted interests. As a thank you for participating, families will receive up to $120.
For more information contact:
https://sensorylab.ot.phhp.ufl.edu/contact-us/
Sensory Development Lab
Department of Occupational Therapy
College of Public Health & Health Professions
University of Florida
UF IRB-01 Approved
Disparities in ASD Identification and Services in the Early Years for Black* Children
FAU CARD is recruiting participants for focus groups, one on one interviews, and surveys as part of a research project to understand how Black* children become identified with autism spectrum disorder. To participate, you must: Reside in Gulf, Gadsden, Citrus, Marion, Flager, St. Johns, Lake, Orange, Hillsborough, Lee, and Monroe Counties
How to Participate:
Complete an online survey
Have More to Say:
Schedule a 1:1 interview or join the next Focus Group
Recruitment Period:
June 2022 to March 2023
For more information contact:
texume@fau.edu
561-405-0059
Torica Exume, Ph.D.
Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
Florida Atlantic University
Thank you for your continued support.
This project is provided by the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Inc., supported in part by grant numbers 1901FLSCDD-01 and 2001FLSCDD-01 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy. Black* – of or relating to any of various population groups including, but not limited to, African-American, Caribbean, Haitian, Nigerian, Kenyan.
Barriers to ASD Genetic Survey
Researchers from the UF Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) would like to know your thoughts on ASD genetic testing.
Survey for patients, family, or caregiver of individuals with ASD and/or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Survey for providers involved in the care of individuals with ASD and/or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Questions about this study? Please email Andryella Maxie Ibarra at andryellaibarra@ufl.edu.
IRB Study ID: IRB202200715 Date Approved: 06/11/2022
Brief Behavior Consultation
Brief Behavior Consultational: A Research Study on Consultative Methods
Are you a caregiver seeking support and services for your young child?
The UF Health Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment is conducting research on aiding families with early learners who are at-risk or recently diagnosed with ASD (ages 1-4). We are looking to recruit families from all over Florida for 6 weeks of consultative services focused on caregivers’ well-being and support.
What do brief behavioral consultative services include?
- Six, one-hour appointments via telehealth (no proximity to Gainesville required)
- Guidance from board certified behavior analysts and UF Health mental health and wellness.
- Essential tools for caregivers to use, with consideration for their mental health and wellness.
- Assessment and lessons in early learner skills such as communication and social skills.
- Guidance on what to expect from future service providers from therapists with years of experience working with families with Autism.
Interested? Please contact one of the principal investigators from the list below:
J. Stephanie Gonzalez, M.A.,BCBA – jeanne.gonzalez@ufl.edu
LeAnna Kehl, M.S. – lkehl@ufl.edu
Mary Elizabeth Moody, M.Ed. – memoody23@ufl.edu
Study ID:IRB202202055 Date Approved: 2/22/2023
Virtual Reality Museum Tour
Exciting opportunity to participate in a University of Florida study that will explore the potential of a VR museum tour to support inclusive events for autistic people and their families, to enjoy all that museums have to offer!
Tell me more about the project
We are so appreciative for your interest and potential participation. We’d like to hear your thoughts and opinions about the FLMNH virtual reality project. We are looking to recruit up to 15 families that include at least one autistic person. It doesn’t matter who this is in the family. There may be more than one autistic person per family, and that’s fine too. You will be asked to enroll in the study (formal consent), and then invited to fill out a survey, access a VR tour of the museum, join us on a Museum for Me event (April 16th 2023), fill out a survey again and finally meet a research via Zoom for a 15-20 min interview. In total, no more that 8 hours of your time.
What do I need to take part?
We are recruiting families with at least one autistic person who is part of the family. You will need access to a computer, touch-screen device or smart phone. The device will need to have access to the internet. From here you will be able to explore the FLMNH virtually to help plan for your upcoming visit. That’s it. We will offer each family that completes the study a FREE one year membership to the FLMNH, so you can come back whenever you like and access all the exhibits (yes the Butterflies too). You also get 10% off in the shop. This is worth $125 per family (family of 4). To register your interest, and take part please contact: nigel.newbutt@coe.ufl.edu
IRB Approval No.: 202300259