Congratulations to Nisma Malik and Wendy Jiang on presenting their research at the DevSci Undergraduate Poster Symposium!

Nisma presented “Executive Functioning in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Linking Neurobiology, Cognition, and Behavior,” which examined the relationship between executive functioning and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her literature review explored how genetic and neurobiological factors contribute to differences in working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control in autistic individuals. Her work highlights how a better understanding of these cognitive processes may support earlier identification of ASD and more targeted interventions to improve daily functioning and quality of life.

Wendy presented “Intellectual Disability and Diagnostic Disparities in Autistic Females: A Literature Review,” which explored how co-occurring intellectual disability may influence the diagnostic pathways of autistic females. Her literature review underscores the importance of developing diagnostic approaches that better reflect the diverse ways autism presents in females.

These projects were completed under the mentorship of Abigael Thinakaran, Maureen Butler, and Dante Rogers, whose guidance and support helped our undergraduate researchers develop their projects from the literature review stage through presenting their work at the symposium.

We’re incredibly proud of Wendy and Nisma for sharing their work, and we’re grateful to our graduate students and staff for their mentorship. Congratulations to everyone involved!