Simons Searchlight | Driven by science. United by hope.

Father and mother holding child smiling

Driven by science. United by hope.

Together, families and scientists can drive breakthroughs for rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders. At Simons Searchlight, our mission is to illuminate these conditions by collecting high-quality, standardized natural history data and fostering strong partnerships between families, researchers, patient advocacy communities and industry leaders. Families like yours are the key to making meaningful progress.

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About Us

Simons Searchlight studies genes that cause rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders. The study is international, and families can participate in several languages. Learn More

7328
REGISTERED

Participants with genetic variants registered

6757
CONSENTED

Participants consented to participate

5414
APPROVED

Genetic lab reports approved

73743
SURVEYED

Participant surveys completed

Genetic Disorders We Study

We study over 185 genes that cause rare neurodevelopmental disorders, and our list is always expanding. Join us if you or your family member have been diagnosed with one of these genetic conditions.

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How to Join Our Research

Please follow the steps below.

step 1

Sign up online

step 2

Provide your genetic lab report

step 3

Share your medical history

step 4

Fill out surveys

step 5

Provide a blood sample if you are interested

step 6

Update us every year and continue your participation

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News and Updates

The Moodleys' Journey with GRIN1
Family Story
The Moodleys' Journey with GRIN1

Discover the inspiring story of the Moodleys.
The Pardos' Journey with NAA15
Family Story
The Pardos' Journey with NAA15

Discover the inspiring story of the Pardos.
Seizure History Survey Available to French and Dutch-Speaking Participants
Data
Seizure History Survey Available to French and Dutch-Speaking Participants

Visit your dashboard to find this survey available for you to complete.
View All

Participant Voices

Simons Searchlight seems like an amazing way to create a large community and bring more research and awareness to many small communities that might not otherwise have such a big voice.

Stacey, Parent

Every time I complete a survey, I know I am doing my part in advancing research to help my child.

Andrew, Parent

There's been an unexpected amount of peace from sharing our struggles and victories with others.

Katie, Parent

I'd do anything to help my son have the best possible chance for a long and happy life including contributing his medical history and completing surveys in Simons Searchlight!

Vanessa, Parent

Every step we take, every test we do, every survey we fill out....all leads to more information. This data can be studied and processed into real life-changing information.

Rhiannon, Parent

The first myth about caring for someone with special needs is that you are alone. You are not.

Tony, Parent

Explore

Community

Connect with others on private Facebook groups. Find your genetic community’s webpage and select “Support Resources”.

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Expertise

Visit our video library to hear insights from our geneticists, scientists, and staff.

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Knowledge

Explore dedicated pages for each genetic condition that we study.

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Ready to share your unique insights?
You could hold the clues scientists need to make progress and find answers.
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