Life Span Institute
We are a network of more than 400 KU scientists, students and staff who strive to improve the health of individuals and communities through research, service and outreach.
Featured News
Life Span Institute to host global audience for developmental disabilities research conference
The KU Life Span Institute will welcome more than 350 scientists, graduate students and practitioners to the 56th annual Gatlinburg Conference on April 17-19.
Life Span Institute research explores impact of adaptive exercise for people with disabilities
KU Life Span Institute researcher Lyndsie Koon is leading three pilot projects assessing the effectiveness of HIFT to improve various health outcomes, including fall risk, metabolic health, strength, flexibility, quality of life, psychosocial health and more.
Life Span Institute researcher responds to NIH changes designation changes for people with disabilities
The National Institutes of Health has announced changes that will now designate people with disabilities as a population with health disparities.
KU alumnus publishes research on cannabis use and driving with support from Guthrie award
Will Davis, a KU alumnus mentored by Michael Amlung of the Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, recently published research on cannabis use with the help of the Patrick Guthrie Hawks for Hope Award.
Research at a Glance
$41.4M
in research awards in FY23
435
investigators, staff and students
70
years of improving human health and development
Our Work
Learn about the research of more than 130 investigators working on dozens of projects spanning education, self-determination, disability policy, neuroscience, behavior, language, child development and more.
Explore research projectsResearch Rising
Research Rising will address the complex genetic, biological, and environmental factors that cause intellectual and developmental disabilities, and how best to develop interventions to support individuals with IDD so that they can live their best lives.Explore the Life Span Institute
People
More than 300 investigators, staff and students are part of the KU Life Span Institute. Find individual staff and connect with our research centers.
Research Impact
View stories about the impact of our research, grant news, and discoveries from the fields of education, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, community health and more.
Research Support
Connect with services that support researchers including study design, grant development, award support, and video and web production.