A deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders or potential therapeutic approaches will require investigation at multiple levels, including but not limited to studies focused on gene discovery, molecular mechanisms, circuits, anatomy, cognition and behavior. We will consider proposals at all of these levels.

We seek applications from independent investigators who can devote a substantial portion of time to this effort (a minimum of 15 percent). We especially encourage applications from researchers who are not currently working on autism, but who have expertise that could be brought to bear on this complex disorder. We will also accept collaborative grants involving multiple investigators.

Applicants are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the work that SFARI currently supports, and to think about how their proposals might complement existing grants.

All applicants and key collaborators must hold a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree and have a faculty position or equivalent at a college, university, medical school, or other research facility. Applications may be submitted by domestic and foreign nonprofit organizations; public and private institutions such as colleges, universities, hospitals, and laboratories; and units of state and local government and eligible agencies of the federal government. For-profit organizations will not be considered. There are no citizenship or country requirements. Visit the SFARI Web site for complete program information and application procedures.