Eric Lauer has spent the last 14 years developing his interest in disabilities and mental health. After receiving his bachelor's degree in psychology, Eric worked directly with children and adults with mental health conditions at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center and McLean Hospital. Eric's fieldwork for his master's degree examined brain weights in autism. His Ph.D. coursework was in statistics, research methodology, molecular biology, and genetic sciences. Eric's career focus includes health disparities, disabilities and mental health, with research interests such as the impact of disabilities, physical illness and mental illness on quality of life, access to care, and health outcomes. Eric's career goals include teaching, research, grant writing, and publishing as well as informing policy on the state and federal level.