Center: Hock E. Tan and K. Lisa Yang Center for Autism Research

Our Mission

The Hock E. Tan and K. Lisa Yang Center for Autism Research conducts research into the genetic, biological, and neural bases of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The center seeks to distinguish biomarkers of autism spectrum disorders; understand these disorders at the molecular, cellular, and circuit levels in a variety of models and humans; and ultimately identify novel targets that will accelerate the development of autism therapy options by the private sector.

Our Founders

A desire to boost interdisciplinary and cutting-edge research into the genetic, biological, and neurological mechanisms underlying this intractable disorder led Lisa Yang and Hock Tan ’75 SM’75 to establish the Hock E. Tan and K. Lisa Yang Center for Autism Research at the McGovern Institute in 2017. They founded the center to support and catalyze revolutionary new research approaches and potential treatments for individuals affected by this disorder.

The center, headed by Robert Desimone emphasizes novel projects that are difficult to fund through traditional grants. By concentrating research efforts on new models, therapeutic approaches, and a push toward understanding changes in the human brain, our scientists are pursuing bold, interdisciplinary research that will lead to a deeper understanding of ASD and better treatment options in the future.

The Tan-Yang Center is partnered with the Hock E. Tan and K. Lisa Yang Center for Autism Research at Harvard University. The two centers share a common scientific advisory board and  have joint symposia to facilitate the sharing of research findings and technologies across institutions on a regular basis.