Professor Ahmed’s research interests are in the areas of urban and environmental economics.  In her research she explores the potential for developing green goods markets like energy and water efficient products, organic food, green fashion and electric cars.  She considers alternative approaches ranging from standards imposed by the government to voluntary standards that firms commit to.  She shows that government regulation often result in unintended  consequences that hurt society.  She also shows instances where corporate social responsibility may not necessarily lead to better social outcomes as the underlying motives may not focus on society.  Professor Ahmed analyzes competition between firms and the impact it has on society in several contexts, for example, competition between firms to produce/ promote green goods. She also analyzes competition in the retailing sector that lead to the demise of mom and pop stores, and currently to the rise of online shopping in the age of information technology.  She is interested in technological advances and how they affect behavior and market trends. Professor Ahmed has done field work on a variety of urban challenges including urban education  and segregation, through her field work in Worcester Massachusetts. 

In the classroom Professor Ahmed teaches interesting and timely topics and encourages students to think critically and push beyond traditional boundaries. She holds students to high standards and helps them get there.