Toon named head of research at Morrison Institute

Richard Toon, Ph.D. has been appointed as the new head of research at Morrison Institute for Public Policy.

As associate director of research, Toon will oversee research design expanding on the Morrison Institute mission to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and public policy through independent research for public and private sector clients.

“Richard brings strong credentials and a passion for the kind of work Morrison does,” said Executive Director Sue Clark-Johnson, who announced the appointment today.

“My role will highlight the academic rigor of what we do while at the same time ensuring that Morrison keeps delivering research that is useful for practitioners,” said Toon. “I am excited by the opportunity to strengthen what we are known for: rigorous research and timely applied knowledge.”

Toon has been a senior policy analyst at Morrison Institute since 2004.  His research interests include criminal justice, education and informal learning, the public understanding of science, and museums and culture.

Prior to joining Morrison Institute, he was Research Scientist and Education & Research Director at the Arizona Science Center where he developed educational programming and studied visitor behavior and attitudes, exhibit development, and informal learning.

Before moving to Arizona, Toon ran a consulting firm that provided research to public and social agencies, primarily in New York City, in child health, juvenile justice, drug treatment programs, community-based family services, and child poverty. He also worked as a researcher for the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services and was Director of Operations Analysis and Management Reporting for New York City Department of Juvenile Justice.

Richard Toon has a Ph.D. in Museum Studies from Leicester University, U.K. He also holds a M.A. in Religious Studies and a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies from Leeds University, U.K.