Groundbreaking Research
RUCARES conducts innovative studies aimed at uncovering the mechanisms and biomarkers of ASD to develop effective treatments.
RUCARES
The Center for Autism Research (RUCARES) is dedicated to advancing research, education, and services for individuals with autism, focusing on early diagnosis, innovative treatments, and improving quality of life for those affected by autism.
Who We Are
At RUCARES, we are committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of autism through research, education, and services. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families by integrating scientific discovery with practical interventions. We collaborate with experts in various fields to push the boundaries of autism research and deliver innovative solutions that make a real-world impact.
About The Center
The Rutgers University Center for Autism Research, Education, and Services (RUCARES) is dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through cutting-edge research and collaborative programs.
Early Intervention and Diagnosis
We focus on early detection and behavioral therapies, ensuring children with ASD receive timely and tailored interventions.
Comprehensive Services
Our programs, including the Severe Behavior Program, provide intensive, specialized support for individuals with severe behavioral challenges.
Collaborative Care
Partnering with Children’s Specialized Hospital, RUCARES delivers integrated care and research, supporting individuals with ASD throughout their lifespan.
The CSH–RUCARES Severe Behavior Program
The CSH–RUCARES Severe Behavior Program is a collaborative effort between Children’s Specialized Hospital and Rutgers University, providing specialized care for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities who display dangerous behaviors, such as aggression and self-injury. The program offers comprehensive services, including evaluations, outpatient, half-day, and full-day treatments tailored to individual needs. By using advanced behavioral interventions and providing thorough caregiver training, the program aims to improve the quality of life for both the children and their families.
Our Director
Dr. Wayne Fisher is the inaugural Director of the Rutgers University Center for Autism Research, Education, and Service (RUCARES), the Henry Rutgers Endowed Professor of Pediatrics at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and a core faculty member of the Brain Health Institute. A board-certified behavior analyst at the doctoral level (BCBA-D) and licensed psychologist, Dr. Fisher brings decades of expertise in autism and developmental disabilities research. Before joining Rutgers, he held tenured positions at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he established internationally recognized clinical-research programs.
Dr. Fisher’s research focuses on innovative methods, including mathematical models of behavior and concurrent schedules of reinforcement, to advance the assessment and treatment of autism and severe behavior disorders. He has published over 200 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals, such as The Lancet and Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, and has received continuous federal grant support for over 20 years. His distinguished career includes multiple honors, such as the APA Division 25 Award for Outstanding Contributions to Applied Behavioral Research and the SEAB Don Hake Translational Research Award. At RUCARES, Dr. Fisher is dedicated to fostering pioneering research, developing behavioral therapies, and creating new technologies to support individuals with autism across New Jersey and beyond.
Explore Our Centers
Learn more about the centers under the Brain Health Institute.
