The research mission of the division includes developing centers of excellence and clinical research programs in selected neurodevelopmental disability fields, such as autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, mitochondrial disease, and Down Syndrome. We are also exploring new paradigms for developmental disability services in order to address patient and family concerns in a timely manner without compromising individualized patient care of the highest quality.
Below is additional information on the division’s related research centers and programs.
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The mission of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center (VKC) for Research on Human Development is to improve the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through research, service, training, dissemination, and educational advocacy. Our researchers work together to solve the mysteries of developmental disabilities and human development. We offer services to people with disabilities, families, educators, and healthcare and other service providers.
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The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders (TRIAD) conducts research related to many different topics. These include novel methods for rapid identification of ASD, participation in federally funded work to understand the prevalence of ASD within the state of Tennessee, studies of treatment outcomes within educational and early intervention settings, and partnerships with other departments focused on developing innovative training approaches and technologies.
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The purpose of the Vanderbilt Consortium LEND is to reduce and prevent NDRD (neurodevelopmental disabilities and related disabilities) in children and to increase access to family-centered, community-based, culturally competent, interprofessional services. The program focuses on preparing health professionals to assume leadership roles and develop interprofessional team skills, advanced clinical skills, and research skills in order to meet the complex needs of children with NDRD.