Brian O’Roak

Associate professor of molecular and medical genetics
Oregon Health and Science University

Brian O’Roak uses genomic approaches to unlock the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and intellectual disability.

From this contributor

Figures along the top of a cliff, reaching for the papers falling from the sky and circulating in the air currents.
Spectrum

How I learned to stop worrying and love preprints

By Brian O’Roak
22 May 2018 | 7 min read
Spectrum Microphone

Burning debate: What’s the best way to nab real autism genes?

By Brian O’Roak
27 June 2017 | 9 min read

Explore more from The Transmitter

Research image of autism-linked gene PTEN changes in neurons.
Spectrum

A consensus on the definition of profound autism, and more

Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 5 July.

By Sarah Thau
7 July 2026 | 2 min read
Learning and memory

‘Completely new learning mechanism’ drives navigation in fruit flies

The neuromodulator octopamine, the insect counterpart to norepinephrine, helps flies get their bearings in an unfamiliar environment.

By Natalia Mesa
7 July 2026 | 0 min watch
Illustration of needle sewing through multicolor strips.
Artificial intelligence

How to use artificial intelligence to strengthen scientific processes and scholarly output

As AI-driven systems are integrated into all aspects of science, we need to make sure that they read and write to a shared data and knowledge space.

By Satrajit Ghosh
6 July 2026 | 5 min read