Summer Scholar

Job Summary

The A.J. Drexel Autism Institute (AJDAI) was founded as the first autism research center in the US to focus on public health research in autism. Its work is grounded in community engagement, and many of the research questions from its transdisciplinary team address issues at the population level. The Institute pioneers research to better understand autism and drive impactful change in our communities and worldwide and they strive for a more inclusive world where all people can participate and flourish. We are excited to announce the 2026 AJDAI Summer Research Program which will host 2 students. We aim to provide students the opportunity to immerse in rich and innovative mentored research experiences focused on autism. Students will be paired with one or more faculty mentors in our programs: Modifiable Factors in Autism Epidemiology: In this program, researchers carry out different kinds of studies to better understand autism. The goal is to learn more about different factors linked to autism across the lifespan. Early Detection and Intervention: The goal of this program is to advance a comprehensive research agenda that promotes optimal outcomes for children with ASD through early detection and intervention. This work integrates public health, psychology, education, and policy to evaluate and implement effective community-based detection and intervention programs. Policy, Analytics, and Community: This program is committed to advancing health and well-being of the autism and disability communities by using data, conducting research, and centering community priorities to inform policy action. Life Course Outcomes: This program advances community-informed research and tools that promote meaningful outcomes for autistic people across the lifespan. Through an intersectional, participatory approach, the program partners with autistic individuals and communities to reduce stigma, remove barriers, and support goals that matter most to them. Our program is interested in talented undergraduate students who seek to immerse themselves in research and public health community impact programs (please note, this program is for non-Drexel students). The personal and professional growth experienced is essential for fostering aspirations for graduate school training and the pathways towards meaningful scientific and public health careers, especially those interested in autism research. Prior research experience is not required. All eligible students are encouraged to apply, especially students who are in the Sciences (e.g., Public Health, Pre-Medicine, Epidemiology, Policy, Psychology/Neuropsychology).

This position is grant-funded; employment is contingent upon the continued availability of those funds.

Essential Functions

• Paired with a faculty mentor in a primary research area. Students will have a focused project that will be identified by their mentors. They will work with their mentors and their respective teams on this unique project throughout the duration of the program -
• They will work with their mentors and their respective teams on this unique project throughout the duration of the program. -
• Present with other varied learning opportunities which will give experience and exposure to the research conducted at the Autism Institute, and generally in the world of autism research. Some examples include: attending lab meetings, journal clubs, informal lunch discussions, weekly didactic sessions, guest lecturers and opportunities to learn about clinical and outreach activities. -
• Students will also have an opportunity to observe assessment and treatment sessions with autistic individuals and their families. -

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of a HS Diploma or GED
• Minimum of 1 year of experience.
• Must be a current undergraduate student

Physical Demands

• Typically sitting at a desk/table

Location

• University City - Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information

This is a Full-Time temporary position classified as Non-Exempt. The offered pay is based on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

For information about benefits, please review Drexel's Per Diem/Casual/Temporary Benefit Fact Sheet.

Special Instructions to the Applicant
Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.