Autism Research Clinic
The Autism Research Clinic is an initiative dedicated to improving diagnosis for autistic New Zealanders.
Our clinic opened in 2024 with the goal of becoming a nationwide centre focussed on improving diagnostic pathways for tamariki and their whānau in Aotearoa.
The clinic brings together families looking for answers, with a dedicated team of genetics specialists, paediatricians and child neurologists from the Centre for Brain Research. Together, they work with each family to support personalised care pathways.
As there is a strong genetic component underlying autism, the clinic uses state-of-the-art genome-wide sequencing and bespoke analysis of each participant’s individual genetic makeup. These approaches are based on more than a decade of research by our team and are designed to give families clearer answers, including future support needs.
The clinic is led by Associate Professor Jessie Jacobsen (Director), Professor Klaus Lehnert, Professor Russell Snell, Dr Juliet Taylor (clinical geneticist) and Dr Hannah Jones (paediatric neurologist).
The Autism Research Clinic has been established with generous philanthropic support from the Freemasons Foundation.
Taking part in our research
Participating in our research provides an opportunity to receive a genetic diagnosis, and to contribute to the community with a better understanding of how autism develops. We have found a genetic answer for approximately one third of our participants. Having a precise genetic diagnosis allows better prediction of future outcomes, and helps to support a child’s individual strengths and challenges.
As part of our community–clinical–research collaboration, we help connect families to relevant resources and support networks.
“A diagnosis is something we've never had, and this has made it possible for us to understand so much more about why our daughter is like she is. It has enabled us to get further tests done for things specific to 2q37, such as potential heart defects and kidney conditions. We are very grateful that this research has led to the diagnosis of our daughter’s condition."
Our scientific advisory board
Professor Michael Talkowski, Director of Genomic Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School.
Professor Donald Love, Division Chief – Genetic Pathology, Sidra Medicine, Qatar.
Professor Martin Kennedy, Director of the Carney Centre for Pharmacogenomics, University of Otago.
Community oversight
Joanne Dacombe, a passionate autistic advocate having held many senior
advisory roles both in New Zealand and abroad.
Contact us
For participants and families
We will open enrolment for our next participants shortly. If you are interested, please contact us at ARC@auckland.ac.nz.
Understanding genome sequencing
Information about the DNA sequencing process
Support the Autism Research Clinic
We hope to secure more funds in the near future to support more families taking part in our research.
How you can help