Mark Taylor

I am a Principal Resaearcher in psychiatric epidemiology at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics. The main goal of my research is to improve health and wellbeing in autistic people through investigating co-occurring conditions in these individuals. I draw on methods from epidemiology, genetics, and psychology in my research. 

Autism is a condition that affects social communication and is also characterized by several 'non-social' characteristics, such as sensory sensitivities. A large proportion of autistic people develop co-occurring conditions, which have a substantial impact on their quality of life. Around 70% have at least one psychiatric condition, such as anxiety disorders and depression. There are also elevated rates of certain somatic and neurological conditions in autistic people, such as epilepsy and cardiovascular conditions.

The focus of my research is on these co-occurring conditions in autistic people, including both mental and physical health, as well as their interplay with each other. Currently, the main goals of my research are to: 1) map out the health needs of autistic people at different stages of their lives; 2) assess the extent to which genetic and environmental factors can explain these co-occurring conditions; and 3) identify specific factors that contribute to the development of co-occurring conditions in autistic people. This research largely involves drawing on nationwide Swedish registry data, however I also use surveys and mixed methods approaches in my research to gain a deeper level of understanding. 

I initially trained in genetic epidemiology, and so I am also often involved in collaborations where genetically informative methods are used. For example, I collaborate on projects focusing on developmental language disorder, infant development, and pain sensitivity. 

I am heavily involved in teaching at KI. I am a coordinator and examiner of dissertations in the medical program. I also co-lead a course in behavior genetics as part of the psychology program. I am also open to supervising students with similar interests to mine, and will normally list projects in the project database for the medical program.