About
Researcher. Scientist. Advocate.
Family and developmental scientist at the intersection of rigorous research and real-world impact.
Professor
Department of Human Development & Family Science
University of Arizona
Dr. Russ Toomey is a Professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Science at the University of Arizona. Their research examines the factors that promote resilience and well-being among LGBTQ+ youth, with a focus on transgender and nonbinary adolescents.
Their work spans family acceptance, school climate, and suicide prevention. Published in leading peer-reviewed journals, their work has shaped national policy discussions, clinical guidelines, and media coverage.
Dr. Toomey has spent over two decades building an evidence base that advocates, clinicians, educators, and policymakers can rely on — translating complex science into knowledge for the people who need it most.
Research Focus
Areas of Expertise
LGBTQ+ Youth Well-being
Developmental factors that promote resilience and positive outcomes among LGBTQ+ young people.
Trans & Nonbinary Adolescents
Experiences and needs of transgender and nonbinary youth across family, school, and community contexts.
Suicide Prevention
Protective factors and risk pathways related to suicidality among LGBTQ+ youth.
Family Acceptance
How family responses to LGBTQ+ identity shape mental health and well-being in adolescence and young adulthood.
School Climate
How school environments and supportive policies affect LGBTQ+ students' academic and psychological outcomes.
Developmental Science
Applying developmental frameworks to understand how context shapes identity, health, and flourishing.
Bring this research to your audience.
Dr. Toomey speaks to universities, healthcare systems, school districts, and advocacy organizations.