Annette Estes, PhD, is the director of the UW Autism Center, committed to clinical services, research, and training to improve the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families across the lifespan. She holds the Susan and Richard Fade Endowed Chair, is a Research Professor in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, and an Adjunct Research Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington. She is also a licensed psychologist in the state of Washington. Her research is carried out at the UW Autism Center and Center on Human Development and Disability.

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Dr. Estes has conducted research to increase the efficacy of intervention for very young children with early signs of autism using the Early Start Denver Model and A Work in Progress. Dr. Estes is also the co-principal investigator with Dr. Stephen Dager of the University of Washington site of the Infant Brain Imaging Study network.  She is directs the behavioral assessment core of the IBIS study.  The aim of the IBIS is to improve early recognition of infants at risk for autism and identify brain mechanisms that may lead to new strategies to prevent or ameliorate autism symptoms. 

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Dr. Estes is especially interested in the role of the family in supporting positive outcomes for children with disabilities and improving the lives of people with ASD.