Helen Pearson is a science writer based in New York City.
Helen Pearson
Freelance writer
Simons Foundation
From this contributor
Father’s advanced age feeds autism risk
Are older fathers more likely to have children with autism? A series of epidemiological studies is giving credence to the idea, suggesting that, with age, sperm may accumulate damage that increases risk in the next generation.
Sense of ‘self’ impaired in autism
People with autism struggle to see their own role in social situations. That's the conclusion from the first study to scan individualsʼ brains while they interact with another person - a technique that could lead to a diagnostic tool.
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NIH proposal sows concerns over future of animal research, unnecessary costs
The new NIH policy calls for greater incorporation of new approach methodologies in all future Notices of Funding Opportunities related to animal model systems.
NIH proposal sows concerns over future of animal research, unnecessary costs
The new NIH policy calls for greater incorporation of new approach methodologies in all future Notices of Funding Opportunities related to animal model systems.
By
Claudia López Lloreda
15 July 2025 | 5 min read
Altered transcription in dup15q syndrome; and more
Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 14 July.
Altered transcription in dup15q syndrome; and more
Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 14 July.
By
Jill Adams
15 July 2025 | 2 min read
Fear and loathing on study section: Reviewing grant proposals while the system is burning
As grants are canceled, delayed and subject to general uncertainty, participating in study sections can feel futile. But it’s more important than ever.
Fear and loathing on study section: Reviewing grant proposals while the system is burning
As grants are canceled, delayed and subject to general uncertainty, participating in study sections can feel futile. But it’s more important than ever.
By
John Tuthill
14 July 2025 | 8 min read