Colorful shapes with black and white photos of a girl coloring and an older man laughing

Life Span Institute News & Events

Discover how the Life Span Institute transforms lives through interdisciplinary research. Our investigators pursue scientific solutions toward a future where everyone thrives.


Recent News

A photo of young students raising their hands in a classroom with a teacher standing near the front of the room.

Study finds effective method to help teachers address gap between finding a good practice and getting started

Researchers at the University of Kansas have documented an approach that helps educators address the “know-do gap.” The gap is when teachers and schools know a practice will benefit the students but it is difficult to get started for any number of reasons. The practice helps anticipate obstacles, plan for them and deliver new practices for students.
A woman with brown hair is looking at the camera as she hugs a child who has closed her eyes and is slightly smiling.

KU autism AI tool launched to provide resources to Kansas families

With a new artificial intelligence chatbot tool developed at the University of Kansas, families can receive vetted information about autism that is specific to their needs in Kansas.
A group of KU researchers stands smiling at the camera.

National association recognizes KU researchers for contributions that advance the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities

Out of thousands of researchers and professionals, nine researchers affiliated with KU were recognized by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
A boy reads a book with a background of the state of Kansas and a sunflower behind him.

Statewide partnership to help improve literacy rates evaluates school readiness, educator training

KU researchers are working to address declining literacy rates in Kansas schools, where just 1 out of 3 students are reaching grade-level proficiency. The goal through the state's Blueprint for Literacy initiative is to reach 90% proficiency for students across Kansas.

Our Economic Impact

An economic analysis indicates the KU Life Span Institute an estimated $30 million impact on the Kansas economy
An image of a woman and a child sitting on a hill beneath a cloud in the image of a fragile x chromosome

Stories of Our Impact

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

Featured Stories

Love a story you read? Take it!

Unless otherwise noted, you can republish this article for free (online or in print). We simply ask that you credit the author and the KU Life Span Institute, link back to the original URL, and do not make material changes to the text. 

Reach out to External Affairs Director Jen Humphrey if you have questions or need assistance.

Follow the Life Span Institute

Get to know us

The KU Life Span Institute is a network of more than 450 scientists, staff and students. We sit down with 6 questions for researchers and staff at the Life Span Institute.