Autism is not one condition but many different forms—what is called “autisms.” Each child and adult on the spectrum has a unique combination of strengths and challenges. Dr. Pelphrey's talk will share how new discoveries in genetics, brain science, and health research are helping us move toward precision health—an approach that recognizes these differences and uses them to guide more personalized care. At the University of Virginia, Dr. Pelphrey and his team are working with families and communities to develop tools that can predict which supports, therapies, or medical treatments are most likely to help a particular child. Their goal is to replace trial-and-error with clear, science-based guidance so that every person with autism can get the right support at the right time. By building this future together, Dr. Pelphrey believes we can improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals and families across the spectrum.  

Kevin Pelphrey is the Harrison-Wood Jefferson Scholars Foundation Distinguished Professor of Neurology at the University of Virginia, where he directs the Autism Center of Excellence Neurogenetics Network. A neuroscientist and father of children with autism, his research integrates genetics, brain imaging, and data science to understand the diverse biological pathways that give rise to autism and to develop personalized approaches to diagnosis and intervention. Dr. Pelphrey has led multiple NIH-funded centers and training programs, and his work has been recognized nationally and internationally for advancing the science of autism and translating discoveries into meaningful improvements in care for children and families.