The Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) aims to enhance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by supporting high-quality, relevant innovative research. It emphasizes the importance of diversity in the scientific community as a crucial component for advancing autism science.
The SURFiN Program aims to encourage and maintain interest in neuroscience among undergraduate students, particularly those from backgrounds underrepresented in the sciences. By offering paid research assistantships at labs in the U.S., Canada, and Europe within the Simons Foundation's Autism and Neuroscience division, SURFiN looks to provide tangible, hands-on research experiences. These opportunities, available during the 2024–2025 academic year, include direct mentorship from early-career scientists. The initiative, part of the foundation's broader effort to foster diversity and inclusion in scientific research, supports the next generation of researchers by facilitating access to research experiences and promoting a more inclusive research training environment.