Jason Vargo is a senior researcher in Community Engagement and Analysis at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. In this role, he conducts research on the economic experiences of lower-income communities and informs community development stakeholders on promising practices related to economic opportunity. In particular, Jason focuses on understanding the role of environmental hazards on regional economies and financial and household wellbeing.
Jason brings a wealth of experience at the intersection of urban planning, data science, and quality of life research. Before joining the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, he was a lead scientist in the California Department of Public Health and led the state’s Modeling Team during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a graduate student, Jason pioneered a dual degree program of study in urban planning and public health between Georgia Tech and Emory University, respectively. Jason’s doctoral work was completed at Georgia Tech and focused on the land use strategies to reduce thermal stress in cities. Jason completed his undergraduate studies in chemical engineering at the University of Michigan.