The International Meeting for Autism Research May 15-17, 2008

Scientists to report the latest findings on the causes and treatments of autism

LONDON –The 7TH Annual International Meeting for Autism Research (IMFAR) brings experts together from around the world to the Novotel London West Hotel and Convention Centre from May 15-17, 2008.

IMFAR will host more than 1,100 researchers, delegates, autism specialists and students, in the world’s largest gathering of researchers and clinicians devoted to a better understanding of autism. Attendance at this year’s meeting is up more than 20 percent from the previous year. This number reflects the heightened interest and more awareness of this disorder that is now recognized to affect up to one in 100 in the United Kingdom and one in 150 individuals in the United States.

Current research on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) involves sophisticated behavioral and biological approaches that require interdisciplinary research collaborations to gain comprehensive knowledge of the disorder. Scientists at IMFAR will discuss and disseminate the latest scientific findings aiming to stimulate research progress toward a better understanding of the nature, causes and treatment options for ASDs. By bringing together clinicians and research scientists, IMFAR provides a unique opportunity to foster dialogue across various disciplines and methods.

This year’s meeting includes over 850 research and educational presentations, lectures, and panel discussions.

Highlights of the IMFAR 2008 Annual Meeting Include:

TUESDAY, MAY 13

Science Media Centre Panel Discussion
19 Albemarle Street, London
11:30 a.m.

Tony Charman, PhD, Institute of Child Health; Geraldine Dawson, PhD, Chief Science Officer Autism Speaks; Francesca Happé, PhD Kings College; Elizabeth Laugeson, PhD University of California Los Angeles

Leading autism experts will discuss the latest in autism research, the potential impact of this research and provide a preview of presentations to be given at the conference as well as be available for questions and answers.

Note: Pre-conference and embargoed study information will be provided to media attending this panel discussion.

THURSDAY, MAY 15

Keynote – Time to Give Up on a Single Explanation for Autism?
8:30 a.m.

Francesca Happé, PhD - Kings College