Autism research innovator shortlisted for Eureka Prize

A ground breaking program of research into the causes of autism has seen Dr Andrew Whitehouse from Perth's Telethon Institute for Child Health Research shortlisted as a finalist for the prestigious 2012 Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Outstanding Young Researcher.

UWA Associate Professor Whitehouse is one of three researchers nationally shortlisted in the category that acknowledges outstanding scientific research conducted by an individual (or groups of) early career researcher(s) who is 35 years old or younger.

At just 30 years of age, Dr Whitehouse is already recognised as an international leader in autism research. His work spans the areas of behaviour, cognition, neuroscience and genetics, and has made a significant contribution to creating a better life for people with autism and their families.

Dr Whitehouse said he was thrilled yet humbled to be shortlisted for the prize.

"I hope that this recognition will give encouragement to all those wonderful families who participate in our research and who are really supporting us to unlock the causes of this very debilitating disorder," he said.

"The reality is that there is still so much that we don't understand about autism, and every piece of the puzzle will lead us closer to more effective therapies and hopefully, one day, a way in which it can be prevented."

Perth-born Dr Whitehouse joined the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research in 2009 after undertaking a Fellowship at Oxford University.

The Australian Museum Eureka Prizes are the country's most comprehensive national science awards, honouring excellence across the four categories of Research and Innovation, Leadership and Commercialisation, Science Communication and Journalism, and School Science.

The winners will be announced  on August 28.

Find out more about Andrew's research at childhealthresearch.org.au.