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Research that improves lives

The KU Life Span Institute is a network of more than 350 KU scientists, staff and students working on discoveries that deliver approaches to improve the health and development of people in Kansas, throughout the region, and beyond.

Featured News

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KU expanding program to bring students with disabilities to college, including to Wichita, Atchison

Researchers at KU have secured a grant to expand the Transition to Postsecondary Education program. The program helps bring students with disabilities to higher education, work toward career goals and meet in-demand jobs in their communities. The work will expand outreach to educators and families across Kansas and establish similar programs at WSU Tech and Benedictine College.
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Parents of autistic children find training and support through online OASIS program

OASIS helps caregivers of autistic children learn evidence-based strategies founded on behavioral science, serving as a critical bridge between diagnosis and intervention.
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6 ways technology tools can help Kansans live more independently

Assistive Technology for Kansans helps people with disabilities across Kansas access tools for safer, independent living. Whether you’ve wanted to try out tools to support independence but don't know how or you’re uncertain how devices can support your goals, ATK can help.
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How understanding sensory differences can help parents support autistic children

Sensory inputs can create differences in children’s behavior compared to their neurotypical peers, which gradually shape the way they explore, learn, and connect with others over time, senior scientist Carissa Cascio explains.
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Research Opportunities

Our investigators pursue science that has the potential to change people’s lives. They often depend on volunteers to partner as participants in research. We are thankful to the many infants, children, and adults who support our commitment to impact the lives of people in Kansas and beyond.

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Our Commitment

Explore how our researchers, staff and students come together to solve problems affecting the health of children, families and communities.

Helping People Thrive
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Our Work

Learn about the research of more than 130 investigators working on dozens of projects spanning education, self-determination, disability policy, neuroscience, behavior, language, child development and more.

Explore research areas

Our Economic Impact

An economic analysis indicates the KU Life Span Institute an estimated $30 million impact on the Kansas economy

Research at a Glance

$46M
in funding in FY24
489
investigators, staff and students
70
years of improving human health and development
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Ranked #1 Worldwide

Life Span Institute science and scholarship fuels the university's new #1 ranking worldwide in developmental disability research.

Scholar GPS Ranks KU No. 1

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Stories of Our Impact

Read about the impact of Life Span Institute research on individuals and communities in Kansas and beyond.

Featured Stories

Explore the Life Span Institute

People

More than 400 investigators, staff and students are part of the KU Life Span Institute. Find individual staff and connect with our research centers.

Impact

View stories about the impact of our research, grant news, and discoveries from the fields of education, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, community health and more.

Support

Connect with services that support researchers including study design, grant development, award support, and video and web production.