From QART fellow to national co-design leader, Noémie Cusson is reshaping how autism research is conducted—with empathy, inclusivity, and purpose at its core.
A PhD student in psychology at Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Cusson brings both academic expertise and personal insight to her work. Diagnosed with autism during her CEGEP studies, she discovered a deep connection to the field—one that has shaped both her research and her mission.
A former fellow during the 2023 transition year between the Quebec Autism Research Training (QART) program and the Canadian Neurodevelopmental Research Training Platform (CanNRT), Cusson experienced both programs firsthand. Today, she serves as the trainee co-chair of the CanNRT Curriculum Co-Design Committee, helping shape an inclusive training program that reflects the needs of the neurodevelopmental research community across Canada.
Her research focuses on empathy in autism, aiming to challenge misconceptions and explore how empathy is experienced and expressed by autistic individuals. She is equally committed to projects that enhance quality of life and reduce stigma through science communication.
“I hope to do research that is centered on the needs of autistic people and their families.” Noémie Cusson explains how her own autism diagnosis contributes to her research interests, including empathy in autistic individuals. (Production: Aura Strategies)
Her journey
We spoke with Cusson about her path from QART to co-design and how living and lived experience informs her approach to research and collaboration.
In what ways has your experience influenced or contributed to your research?
Cusson: Being a QART fellow allowed me to connect with other graduate students doing autism research and to deepen my understanding of autism through the annual summer school. I presented my work at international conferences and took part in workshops through the Training Passport.
As a member of the Curriculum Co-Design Committee, I gained firsthand experience with co-design principles and witnessed the impact this approach can have. This role also allowed me to meet with inspiring people from across Canada.
These experiences led to several ongoing research collaborations.
How is your work advancing the field of neurodevelopmental research?
Cusson: My thesis aims to advance our understanding of empathy in autism, which could potentially inform theoretical models of autism, diagnostic assessments and interventions.
Beyond that, I’m involved in several projects aimed at improving autistic individuals’ quality of life. These include a project that focuses on reframing restricted interests as passions, and another that examines the characteristics of peer support in autism.
I also prioritize science communication to share research findings more broadly and reduce stigma.
What advice would you give to early career researchers in CanNRT?
Cusson: Get involved! Whether by joining a committee, participating in a project of interest (like the journal clubs), or by taking advantage of the many opportunities and events that CanNRT offers. Connecting with other students and researchers in the community can lead to engaging discussions and future collaborations.
“Autism can come with challenges, but it also comes with strengths we can build on. I want to use research to help create real change for autistic people.”
—Noémie Cusson, PhD student, UQAM
Looking ahead
As CanNRT continues to evolve, members like Noémie Cusson are helping to redefine what inclusive, community-informed neurodevelopmental research looks like. Her leadership and insight remind us that impactful science is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and respect.
If you are interested in collaborating with Cusson or learning more about her work, visit her Lab profile.
To learn more about the CanNRT Fellowship program, visit our webpage.