Dr. Griffin completed his doctoral training at Pennsylvania State University and his postdoctoral training at Yale University, where he was a Hilibrand Postdoctoral Fellow. His research program centers on understanding the neural and behavioral mechanisms that influence social perception (e.g., face processing) in both autistic and non-autistic children and adolescents. As a cognitive neuroscientist and autism researcher, Dr. Griffin strives to merge neuroscience, clinical, and quantitative methodologies to amplify the translational impact of his work. To achieve this, he employs a diverse range of tools, including electroencephalography (EEG), eye-tracking, intervention science, and advanced statistical techniques, aiming to deepen our understanding of social perception in autism. Dr. Griffin's research has garnered funding from various intramural and extramural sources, including the Hilibrand Foundation, the Autism Science Foundation, and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). He has also been recognized with numerous awards for his contributions, including the Alumni Association Dissertation Award, which earned him the Distinguished Scholar Medal. Notably, he has earned multiple innovation awards, highlighting his innovative approach to research as an early career investigator. He also serves on the Early Career Committee for APA Division 3: Experimental Psychology and Cognitive Science.
Originally from Monroe Township, New Jersey, Chris spent over 5 years volunteering in the Special Olympics. He joined the Griffin Laboratory because of his strong interest in learning more about autism, social perception, and eye gaze. Chris hopes to either attend graduate or medical school after graduating from UH.