Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder occurring in 1% of the global population. It is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the U.S. and affects 1 in 59 children.

Almost three years ago, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) established Israel’s first university-based autism center. The Autism Center integrates and advances research, training, clinical services, and community engagement, helping individuals with ASD and their families in Israel and around the world.

HU’s Autism Center leads the Middle East in research, training, clinical care, and community services benefiting people on the autism spectrum and their families. Led by Professor Cory Shulman (Director) and Dr. Judah Koller (Associate Director), this comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach represents a milestone in the diagnosis and treatment of autism. In Israel and around the world, a there is a substantial need for improved and widespread diagnostic services, intervention programs, and support for families.

The Autism Center is anchored in the Faculty of Medicine and brings together professionals from the Schools of Social Work and Education. The center also draws upon the expertise of specialists in the fields of Genetics, Neurology, Neonatology, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacology, Psychology, and Metabolism and Nutrition. In addition to producing cutting-edge integrated research, the center trains professionals to work with individuals, families, and the community.

The Autism Center facilitates a cross-pollination of ideas, research, and clinical experience that also extends to helping develop enlightened and effective public programming and policies that offer improved support to individuals, as well as guidance for government and medical bodies addressing the challenges posed by ASD.

You can learn more about the Autism Center here.