After earning a BA in Psychology and Sociology from UCLA and both a Master's degree and PhD in Experimental Psychology from the
University of Illinois, Dr. Stephen Edelson taught at Pitzer College and Willamette University. He then joined the Autism Research Institute, becoming Executive Director, and eventually Chief Science Officer. His research has examined
challenging behavior, sensory processing, aging, co-occurring medical conditions, and a variety of interventions. Dr. Edelson has organized international scientific meetings, administered research grant programs, delivered hundreds of lectures, and developed a worldwide network of more than 260 autism support groups in 78 countries. He also established the National Autism History Museum to help preserve the history of autism research. Stephen continues to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore new directions in autism research.