Autism Science Foundation Releases Request for Applications for 2026 Pilot Grants Focused on Profound Autism and Severe, Intense, and Dangerous Behaviors

NEW YORK, NY (November 11, 2025) — The Autism Science Foundation (ASF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and funding innovative autism research, has announced a new Request for Applications (RFA) for its 2026 Profound Autism Pilot Grant program, focused on profound autism and severe, intense, and dangerous behaviors.

These one-year awards will support established investigators and pre-doctoral fellows conducting research to better understand the causes of profound autism and improve the quality of life for individuals who are minimally or nonverbal, have significant intellectual disabilities, and require 24-hour care, as well as those with severe problem behaviors such as self-injury, aggression, or wandering.

“Families of individuals with profound autism deserve answers grounded in solid science,” said Alison Singer, ASF President. “By supporting projects that tackle the toughest challenges, ASF is helping to build the knowledge base that will shape more effective supports, treatments, and services.”

“There’s an urgent need for more research that reflects the full spectrum of autism — especially for those who require the highest levels of care,” said Dr. Alycia Halladay, ASF Chief Science Officer. “These grants are designed to drive discovery and improve interventions, while also providing support for early career investigators interested in profound autism research.”

Applications are open to both U.S. and international researchers affiliated with academic or nonprofit institutions. Priority will be given to projects that identify biological mechanisms, evaluate treatments or interventions, or address barriers to conducting research with individuals who have profound autism.

Applications are due March 2, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET. A virtual Q&A session will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET. Register here: Zoom registration link. 

For full details, visit here. 

About the Autism Science Foundation
The Autism Science Foundation (ASF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity. Its mission is to fund breakthrough research that will improve the lives of people with autism. To learn more about the Autism Science Foundation or to make a donation, visit www.autismsciencefoundation.org.

ASF media contact:
C.J. Volpe
Autism Science Foundation
cvolpe@autismsciencefoundation.org