On 26th February 2019, researchers from Trinity College Dublin invited families living with autism to meet with their research team in Trinity Institute of Population Health, Tallaght, for their event – “What’s next in autism genomics?”.

Five expert speakers talked about the progress and the potential for genomics research in autism. They used the World Café methodology, which proved a highlight, creating great discussion with researchers over the importance and opportunities for public involvement in autism research. What emerged from the day was how eager the participants were to participate in a careful conversation about research, how intrinsically valuable that conversation is to research, and practical ways to harness the collective brains from researchers and family members. The researchers learnt about the importance of including public patient involvement (PPI) into the research life cycle, from initial funding applications to publishing the research. From this discussion, they have direction on how to do this – including sending out newsletters, running focus groups and future PPI events for the wider community. Look out for the talks in full over the next few weeks on the TCD YouTube channel.

We would like to recognise Dr Lorna Lopez and Prof Louise Gallagher for their commitment to advancing engaged research as well as Michael Foley for facilitating the event.

The researchers would like to thank the Health Research Board for funding this event