OAR's mission is focused on using research to address the myriad challenges associated with autism. This includes a commitment to apply scientific findings to improve the social, educational, and treatment aspects concerning autistic individuals, their families, and professionals within the autism community. A significant facet of their mission is to disseminate valuable, actionable information widely within the autism community and direct research and program efforts towards substantially enhancing the quality of life for those with autism and their supportive families. They define their approach as applied research, which concerns itself with practical studies aimed at improving the daily life of autistic individuals through better understanding and addressing of issues like education, communication, self-care, social skills, employment, among others, alongside family support and service delivery systems.
The Applied Research Competition hosted by OAR is designed to support research that promotes evidence-based practices in areas such as assessment models, intervention or service delivery systems, educational and behavioral interventions, and lifelong support for individuals with autism. The competition prioritizes studies that can extend the current knowledge on autism intervention and treatment, leading to practical and impactful results, potentially influencing public policy, and improving quality of life for autistic individuals and their families. This year, there is a special focus on community-engaged research, community-based assessment and intervention, supports for community living, gender and sexual health, physical and mental health, access to services, diversity, and issues faced by mid-life to older autistic adults. OAR plans to award up to 8 grants of $50,000 each to studies with durations of one to two years.