The Research Committee at the National Center for START Services® (NCSS) plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization's research agenda. This committee, comprised of both internal NCSS staff and external partners, is responsible for overseeing all research activities, and ensuring they align with NCSS's mission and values. The Research Committee collaborates with experts to design and implement studies, reviews research proposals, and ensures adherence to ethical standards. Additionally, the committee works closely with the NCSS advisory council and START program staff around the country to review research findings, disseminate results through publications and presentations, and identify areas for future investigation. In addition to permanent committee members (list below), student evaluators and guest researchers with an interest in the field are often invited to share their work and research interests with the committee. By guiding research efforts, the Research Committee contributes to the continuous enhancement of START programs and to evidence-based practices in work that supports people with IDD-MH.
NCSS Research Committee Members
- Andrea Caoili, Director of Research and Quality Assurance, National Center for START Services®
- Luke Kalb, Assistant Professor, Kennedy Krieger Institute Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation
- Diane Jacobstein, Clinical Psychologist and Adjunct Professor, Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development
- Karen Weigle, Associate Director, National Center for START Services®
- Jennifer McLaren, Chief Medical Advisor, National Center for START Services®
- Ann Klein, Director of Evaluation and Outcomes, National Center for START Services®
- Joan Beasley, Research Professor, Institute on Disability, University of New Hampshire
