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Positioning Autism Discoveries for Successful Drug Development

A two-day free short course and introduction to a unique funding and support opportunity for principal investigators interested in or currently developing a therapeutic for autism; principal investigators pursuing research in adjacent fields with therapeutic potential for autism; and staff at university technology transfer offices who assist principal investigators with therapeutic development. Course content will include an overview of autism and unmet needs for those new to the field.

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Sponsored by SPARK NS

SPARK NS is sponsoring this two-day short course to provide principal investigators with knowledge and insights that will help them advance their discoveries in autism from the lab to the clinic where they can directly benefit patients. Participants will also be introduced to the SPARK NS Translational Research Program. The program provides selected projects with up to $2,000,000 in milestone-based funding, education in drug development, mentorship from industry expert advisors, and scientific and business networking opportunities.

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What You’ll Learn

Perspectives on unmet clinical needs in autism

Strategies for successful drug development

How to position your discovery to obtain translational research funding

How a unique model of translational research can eliminate barriers to success

Important Information

Applications for the short course will be accepted from May 2 to June 13, 2025.

Who can attend

Principal investigators interested in or currently developing a therapeutic for autism; principal investigators pursuing research in adjacent fields with therapeutic potential for autism; and staff at university technology transfer offices who assist principal investigators with therapeutic development are all eligible to attend. Course content will include an overview of autism and unmet needs for those new to the field.

Short course, accommodations, and meals are free

There is no fee to attend the short course. SPARK NS will provide hotel accommodations for two nights, Sunday, August 10 and Monday, August 11. SPARK NS will also offer dinner at a welcome reception on Sunday and provide all meals throughout the course.

Travel stipend

A travel stipend of up to $800 will be available after completion and evaluation of the short course. Participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements to and from the hotel. Additional details to follow.

Important Dates and Times

Event times are subject to minor adjustments. Any changes will be communicated in advance.

  • Application portal opens

  • Application deadline

  • Selected applicants will be notified

  • Welcome reception and dinner (optional)

  • Short course

Questions about this short course?

Learn more about the SPARK NS program

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