Research by Dr. Yerys focuses on brain and cognitive development of executive function, attention, and reward-based learning in children on the autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Dr. Yerys takes a lifespan approach in his research by working with preschoolers through young adults.

His research seeks to understand how executive function, attention, and reward-based learning develop differently in neurodevelopmental populations, how these skills intersect with psychiatric symptoms, one's daily living skills, and ultimately one’s quality of life. He is also applying this knowledge to new treatments.

Among his notable career accomplishments, Dr. Yerys demonstrated that:

• Co-occurring ADHD symptoms in autistic people are associated with more executive function challenges, more difficulties with day-to-day activities, and a lower self-reported quality of life
• The brain’s reward system contributes to both social and repetitive behavior features of autism
• Executive function weaknesses, particularly limited cognitive and behavioral flexibility, plays a role in both social and repetitive behavior features of autistic people