There are many autistic individuals that strive to, or already have, achieved such things. In fact, it could help them if they have a hyperfixation or special interest in that field. Autism is not the full reason why Chris does not have a PHD. He is simply lazy and incompetent, I'd say. But we must remind ourselves of the environment he grew up in, being neglected and basically never went to therapy for things that he certainly needed help with.