Mathematician

Computational Mathematician, Cryptographer, Mathematician, Research Scientist
Job Description

A Mathematician is a professional who applies mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, and other fields. They conduct research to develop new mathematical principles and understand existing ones better.

Typical Preparation

Education: Master's degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 2.2% (average)

Annual job openings: 100

Direct AI exposure: 38% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 100% of tasks

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $127K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$69K
per year
$89K
per year
$127K
per year
$157K
per year
$195K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $76K above the national average.

What does a Mathematician do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Conducts research to explore and apply mathematical theories.
  • Develops mathematical models to solve practical problems in fields like science and engineering.
  • Analyzes data and applies mathematical techniques to interpret results.
  • Collaborates with professionals in other fields to address complex issues.
  • Presents findings through reports, papers, or lectures.

Work environment

Mathematicians typically work in an office setting, often for government agencies, private science and engineering research companies, or academic institutions. Their work usually involves collaboration with engineers, scientists, and other professionals, and may also include teaching at the university level.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Applied Mathematics: Focusing on the application of mathematical methods to practical problems.
  • Theoretical Mathematics: Concentrating on advancing mathematical theory.
  • Computational Mathematics: Using computational techniques to analyze and solve mathematical problems.
  • Statistics: Specializing in the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data.
  • Mathematical Physics: Applying mathematical methods to solve problems in physics.

Description

The field of mathematics is vast and diverse, offering opportunities to work in various sectors, including education, government, and private industry. Mathematicians use their knowledge to analyze data, develop algorithms, model natural phenomena, and solve complex problems. Their work is often at the heart of scientific and engineering breakthroughs and contributes significantly to various fields such as economics, finance, and technology.

Mathematicians must be adept at logical reasoning and abstract thinking. They need strong analytical skills to identify, model, and solve complex problems. The occupation requires not only a deep understanding of mathematical concepts but also the ability to apply these concepts to real-world situations. Mathematicians often work on long-term research projects, which can be both challenging and rewarding.

The career path for mathematicians can vary greatly. Some may focus on theoretical research, seeking to advance our understanding of mathematical principles, while others apply their mathematical expertise to practical problems in business, engineering, or technology. Teaching and academic research are also common career paths, particularly for those with advanced degrees.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Mathematician if you are...

Pros:

  • High potential for impact in various fields.
  • Opportunities for intellectual challenge and continuous learning.
  • Diverse career paths in academia, industry, or government.

Cons:

  • Requires extensive education and academic qualifications.
  • May involve working on complex problems with long periods without significant breakthroughs.
  • Theoretical work can sometimes seem disconnected from practical applications.

How to become a Mathematician

Typical education

A mathematician typically requires a Ph.D. in mathematics or a related field, which can take an additional 4-6 years after completing a bachelor's degree.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Advanced mathematics courses, including calculus, algebra, and geometry.
  • Physics and other sciences to understand the application of mathematics.
  • Computer Science to develop computational and programming skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in math clubs or competitions like Math Olympiads.
  • Engage in science fairs or academic clubs.
  • Explore online math courses or summer programs in mathematics.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in mathematics or a related field.
  • Consider graduate studies, leading to a master's or Ph.D., especially for research-intensive roles.
  • Gain experience through internships or research projects in applied mathematics.

More resources

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