An Auckland University hunt for the genetic causes of autism has been secured by a five-year Government grant.
Scientist Dr Jessie Jacobsen is one of 10 top up-and-coming researchers to be awarded the Rutherford Discovery Fellowships, administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand and worth $8 million over five years.
It is estimated that 1 in every 100 people in New Zealand has autism spectrum disorder, a group of conditions including “classical” autism and Asperger syndrome. Autism spectrum disorders can have a range of symptoms which typically include impairments in communication and language, repetitive behaviours and restricted interests. The exact causes are not known.
Click HERE to read the whole story at NZHerald.co.nz