Grace Baranek

Grace Baranek, PhD, is the Associate Dean and Chair of the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, holding the endowed title of Mrs. T.H. Chan Professor. She is an internationally recognized expert in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly focusing on sensory features in children with ASD. Her research spans over three decades, emphasizing early detection, intervention, and developmental mechanisms of sensory and behavioral traits in ASD. Dr. Baranek earned her B.S. in Occupational Therapy from the University of Illinois and her M.A. and PhD in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Her career includes leading the NIH-funded Sensory Experiences Project (2003–2013), totaling $4.5M, which investigated sensory features in ASD. She has authored over 100 peer-reviewed papers and co-developed the First Years Inventory (FYI), a screening tool for early ASD identification. Dr. Baranek has held leadership roles in national organizations, including the National Academy of Sciences and NIH working groups, advocating for evidence-based practices in ASD care.

Her research interests include sensory processing abnormalities in ASD, early intervention strategies, and translational research to bridge clinical practice with scientific discovery. Key grants include NIH/NICHD, Department of Defense, and Autism Speaks Foundation awards. Awards include the AOTA Cordelia Myers Award (2016), AOTF A. Jean Ayres Award (2008), and Fellow of INSAR (2022).

• Grants: NIH/NICHD, DOD, Autism Speaks, AOTA.
• Lab/Teams: Sensory Experiences Research Group, Early Detection & Intervention Lab.