Autism and Exceptional Memory

What we want to find out

This study explores exceptional memory in both autistic and non-autistic people. We aim to learn more about different types of exceptional memory, such as strong musical memory or number memory, and whether these skills are linked to differences in brain structure and function. We also want to explore whether certain cognitive profiles and autistic traits are related to unique patterns of brain connections in people with exceptional memory. 

Why we are doing this research

Exceptional skills are abilities that significantly exceed those encountered in the general population. Exceptional memory is among the most common of these exceptional skills. Although autism and exceptional memory can occur together, the link between the two is not yet well understood. This study aims to provide clearer insight into how and why these strengths develop. 

Method

We enrolled participants into a two-phase study. In phase one, we invited autistic and non-autistic participants to take an online survey which included three online memory tests.  

In phase two of the study, 117 selected participants were invited to visit the Autism Research Centre. During the visit, participants did further in-person memory tests and had a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.  

After completing all in-person visits, the research team will process and analyse the data.  We will use several different analytical techniques and packages to analyse the brain scans and learn more about any underlying differences in brain structure and function. We will relate the brain scans with the in-person behavioural tests (e.g. memory, reasoning) and questionnaires to better understand how and why any potential differences in the brain are related to cognitive traits and exceptional memory.  

Community engagement

In 2022, we organised a series of focus groups with 4 autistic people and 1 parent of an autistic child. We also shared a survey and received written feedback from additional group of 7 autistic people. We discussed the study, the presentation of materials to participants, and the construction of an online survey on exceptional skills. Based on the feedback we made survey adaptations (in clarity, language and some item structure) before launching the online part of the study.  

Potential impact

Exceptional memory has long been recognised in many autistic people, but there has been limited research into why these skills arise or what they can tell us about autism more widely.

This project will be the largest study of its kind and will help to deepen our understanding of memory – especially exceptional memory. The findings may help people gain insight into their own biology and how it relates to their strengths and abilities.

We also hope this research will help highlight the strengths and talents within the autistic community.

Results

The results will be published in scientific journals within this and in the upcoming academic years (2026 and onwards). When ready, the key findings will also be shared on this page. 

Publications

Moniri, M., Balabanovska, M., Braschi, S., Bethlehem, R. A. I., Allison, C., Radecki, M. A., Przezdzik, I., Warrier, V., Greenberg, D. M., Owen, A. M., Suckling, J., & Simons, J. People with exceptional short-term memory are strong systemisers: A large online study. (preprint).

Funding

Staff

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