Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects one in every 200 children. Children and adults with autism suffer from differences in brain development, as yet poorly understood, in areas linked to social interaction and communication.

The mission of the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) is to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of autism and related developmental disorders. SFARI explores neuroscience from multiple directions, including molecular, cellular, systems, immunological, cognitive, behavioral, genetic, theoretical and computational perspectives.

Funding for innovative scientific research is available through a peer-reviewed proposal process at regular intervals. Research projects are reviewed by a scientific advisory board and managed by the scientific director and a highly qualified staff. Proposals in multiple research areas are sought, to reflect the complex nature of autism.