For Scientists

 

Researchers can access Simons Searchlight data through our SFARI Base portal. SFARI Base is supported by the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI). It contains data from the following research projects indicated below.

Learn more about SFARI in this introductory video.

Learn more about each SFARI research project:

Researchers can request access to phenotypic, genetic, or imaging data; order biospecimens from the following SFARI research projects; and/or submit a research match application to recruit individuals or families for future research studies. Instructions on how to access SFARI Base and request resources are detailed below.

Opportunities for funding

SFARI offers research funding to scientists at academic institutions as part of their periodic Requests for Applications (RFAs).  Monitor this website for these funding opportunities.

How to access SFARI Base and request SFARI resources:

  • Log into SFARI Base. If you do not have a SFARI Base account, you may create one. As part of account creation, you will need to affiliate with an institution. If your institution is not registered on SFARI Base, you will be prompted to provide institution details as part of registration. This includes the name and email address of a Signing Official who has authority to represent your institution in a legal agreement, similar to a material transfer agreement.

  • Review your institution’s executed Researcher Distribution Agreement (RDA) and agree to the joinder to the RDA. View the standard RDA.

  • Create a SFARI Base project, which includes the title, abstract, and an IRB approval or exemption document.

  • Create a SFARI Base request, which includes specifying the type of resource you would like to request access to (phenotype, genetic, or imaging data; biospecimens; and/or research match application). The submitted request will be reviewed by the SFARI science team or the appropriate committee.

  • Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions

  • Go to SFARI Base »

Download the “How to make a request on SFARI Base” summary (also shown below)

 

Simons Searchlight Research Match Program

The Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) launched the Simons Searchlight Research Match program, through which researchers can apply to recruit individuals enrolled in Simons Searchlight for new research studies. Researchers interested in recruiting Simons Searchlight participants into their studies can submit an application via SFARI Base. Approved researchers will receive further information about how to contact families.

Learn more about this program by visiting the SFARI website.

How to cite when using Simons Searchlight data or resources for publications?

Please review how to acknowledge the use of Simons Searchlight data or biological resources on SFARI.org.


Simons Searchlight Researcher Welcome Packet

In the Simons Searchlight Researcher Welcome Packet you find the following information:

  • Simons Searchlight Phase 2 (2013-current)
    • Phase 2 Inclusion Criteria
    • Phase 2 Exclusion Criteria
    • Simons Searchlight Phase 2: Study Measures
  • Simons Searchlight (Simons VIP) Phase 1 (2010-2014)
    • Phase 1 Inclusion Criteria
    • Phase 1 Exclusion Criteria
    • Simons Searchlight Phase 1: In-Clinic Study Measures (collected prior to 2015)
  • How to Access SFARI Base and Request SFARI Resources
  • Simons Searchlight (Simons VIP) Sample Consent Forms
    • Phase 1
    • Phase 2

Download the Simons Searchlight Researcher Welcome Packet (also shown below)