Discovering differences and similarities between phenotype and biology of twins with autism and children with known genetic problems with a high risk of autism

Project Details

In this research area we are exploring possible causes of autism and the role of the environment, genes and how genes behave. Identical twins with autism are rare and offer a unique opportunity to gain further knowledge about potential causes of autism. Rare genetic conditions such as Tuberous Sclerosis where there is an overlap with autism, also offer opportunities to further understand the causes of these conditions.

Researchers

  • Professor Katrina Williams, APEX Australia Chair of Developmental Medicine, Paediatrician and Public Health Physician
  • Dr Tamara May, Lorenzo and Pamela Galli Postdoctoral Fellow & Psychologist
  • Dr Kristine Egberts, Lorenzo and Pamela Galli Postdoctoral Fellow in Systematic Reviews
  • Ms Amanda Brignell, Research Assistant & Speech Pathologist
  • Dr Felicity Klopper, Research Assistant & Neuropsychologist
  • Ms Francesca Lami, PhD student
  • Ms Charmaine Bernie, PhD student & Occupational Therapist
  • Dr Rebecca Mitchell, PhD student & Paediatrician
  • Ms Marijke Mitchell, PhD student enrolling for 2017 & Nurse

Collaborators

We collaborate with a range of different groups including those from the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, University of Melbourne, Deakin University, Djerriwarrh Health Services (DjHS) Melton, and the Living with Autism Cooperative Research Centre.

Funding

We are funded through the NHMRC, ARC and various philanthropic organisations.

Research Group

Autism Research Team



Faculty Research Themes

Child Health

School Research Themes

Child Health in Medicine, Neuroscience & Psychiatry



Key Contact

For further information about this research, please contact the research group leader.

Department / Centre

Paediatrics

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