Vis Taraz is a development economist whose primary research interests lie at the intersection of development economics and environmental economics, with a focus on climate change.  Her research investigates how individuals in low- and middle-income countries are affected by climate change and other environmental issues.  Her research touches on topics including on agriculture and irrigation, migration and structural transformation, and social safety net programs.

Taraz teaches courses that are broadly related to her research interests. At Smith, she teaches courses in introductory microeconomics, statistics and econometrics, development economics, the economics of climate change, and a seminar on India’s economic development.