SPARK

Understanding Autism

Join a growing community of families, autistic adults, and researchers working to understand autism and improve lives.

LEARN MORE JOIN NOW

WHY JOIN SPARK

You’ll be part of the largest autism research community
It’s simple and free
SPARK is a long-term study that will provide answers to research questions for years to come
Together we can advance the understanding of autism

Who Can Join

SPARK is for all individuals living in the U.S. with a professional diagnosis of autism and their family members
All ages are welcome

How to Join

Create an account online
Agree to share data and genetic information
Registration takes about 20 minutes

What Participation Means

Participation is online and free
Your information will be kept private and secure
Answer questions about your autism experience
Return your saliva kit if you agree to genetic research
Learn about additional research opportunities

New to SPARK? Learn more.

Already a participant? Visit your personal SPARK Dashboard.

MEET OUR PARTICIPANTS

How Many Kinds of Autism Exist?

How Many Kinds of Autism Exist?

How many different types of autism are there? A study involving SPARK participants proposes an answer.

Decoding the Medical Complexities of an Autistic Son

Decoding the Medical Complexities of an Autistic Son

A mother pursued answers for years about her autistic son's complex medical issues. Learn what she discovers.

What’s the Link Between Autism and GI Problems?

What’s the Link Between Autism and GI Problems?

Many autistic people have gastrointestinal problems. Researchers look at what might be happening.

WEBINARS

Upcoming

Hui Zhang, Ph.D.

Webinar: What Do Families Really Need? Insights from Community Work with Autism Families

May 20, 2026

Wendy Chung, M.D., Ph.D.

Webinar: Celebrating Ten Years of SPARK-Ten Areas Where SPARK Increased Our Understanding of Autism

April 2, 2026