Sir Simon Baron-Cohen

Sir Simon is a world-renowned expert on autism whose decades of research has led to a greater understanding of the condition. He is widely acknowledged as one of the most provocative thinkers in the field. He was the first to recognise what is now one of the key concepts in autism research, that people with autism have difficulties interpreting the actions and intentions of others. He created the first UK clinic for adults with suspected Asperger Syndrome which has helped over 1,000 patients to have their disability recognised. Sir Simon developed the Mindreading software for special education; his lab also developed The Transporters, an animation series designed to teach children with autism to recognise and understand emotions. Both were nominated for a BAFTA. He is the director of Cambridge University’s Autism Research Centre, a Fellow of the British Psychological Society, the British Academy, the Academy of Medical Sciences, and the Association for Psychological Science. He serves as Scientific Advisor, Trustee or Patron to several autism charities. The recipient of many prizes, he was awarded the Kanner-Asperger Medal as a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to autism research. He was knighted in the 2021 New Year Honours for services to autistic people.