Kennedy's New Autism Research Project Led by Veteran with Diverse Healthcare Background

The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) is launching a comprehensive, lifespan-based autism research initiative led by Russell Shilling, a program director with a unique background spanning military service in Iraq, public health advocacy, and educational partnerships including work with Sesame Street. This ambitious project aims to advance understanding of autism across all life stages, from early childhood through adulthood. Shilling's diverse experience in both defense and public health sectors brings a multidisciplinary approach to autism research. The initiative represents a significant commitment to generating new insights that could improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Originally published on
STAT News
By O. Rose Broderick
Read full article(opens in new tab)Fetched: September 25, 2026 at 10:01 AM



