participatory research – Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre

A smiling woman wearing glasses, colourful dangling earrings, a black top and jeans stands outdoors on a grassy lawn surrounded by eucalyptus trees and buildings.

Staff Spotlight: Dr Mel Heyworth

Dr Mel Heyworth has recently joined the Centre as Deputy Director (Community & Co-Design) of the Australian Autism Knowledge Hub. Her work is grounded in a strong interest in Autistic wellbeing and flourishing...

J M August 31, 2026

Screenshot of YouTube preview. Blue background with white and yellow writting: the SCHOOL CAN"T Experience: Insight from School Can't Research with Dawn Adams

Educational and vocational engagement Health and wellbeing Learning with OTARC

Podcast: Insight from school attendance research

Host Leisa Reichelt speaks with autism researcher and clinical psychologist Professor Dawn Adams about what the latest School Can’t research is showing.

Alex Haschek February 24, 2026

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Academic Neurodiversity

Spotlighting the work of Dr Dianne Blackwell

Meet Dr Dianne Blackwell, a researcher with the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre (OTARC) whose work bridges clinical expertise and lived experience.

J M August 4, 2025

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Autism perspectives Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity and Participatory Research in Autism

The article explores the growing recognition of neurodiversity, highlighting how Autistic activism and participatory research are shifting perspectives on autism, promoting inclusion, and advocating for societal changes to better support the Autistic and autism communities.

mdenham November 21, 2019