Career Details
Badge

Mathematician

Mathematicians use advanced mathematics to develop and understand mathematical principles, analyze data, and solve real-world problems. 

Mathematicians typically do the following: 

  • Expand knowledge in mathematical areas, such as algebra or geometry, by developing new rules, theories, and concepts
  • Use mathematical formulas and models to prove or disprove theories
  • Apply mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields
  • Develop mathematical or statistical models to analyze data
  • Interpret data and report conclusions from their analyses
  • Use data analysis to support and improve business decisions
  • Read professional journals, talk with other mathematicians, and attend professional conferences to maintain knowledge of current trends

The following are examples of types of mathematicians: 

Applied mathematicians use theories and techniques, such as mathematical modeling, to solve practical problems. These mathematicians typically work with individuals in other occupations to solve these problems. For example, they may work with chemists and materials scientists and chemical engineers to analyze the effectiveness of new drugs. Other applied mathematicians may work with industrial designers to study the aerodynamic characteristics of new automobiles. 


Theoretical mathematicians do research to identify unexplained issues in mathematics and resolve them. They are primarily concerned with exploring new areas and relationships of mathematical theories to increase knowledge and understanding about the field. Although some may not consider the practical use of their findings, the knowledge they develop can be an important part of many scientific and engineering achievements. 


Despite the differences, these areas of mathematics frequently overlap. Many mathematicians will use both applied and theoretical knowledge in their job duties. 

However, most people with a degree in mathematics or who develop mathematical theories and models are not formally known as mathematicians. Instead, they work in related fields and professions. In the computer systems design and related services industries, they may be known as computer programmers or systems analysts. In finance, they may be known as quantitative analysts, financial analysts, or statisticians. 

Computer and information research scientists, physicists and astronomers, economists, actuaries, operations research analysts, and many other occupations also use mathematics extensively. 

Some people with a mathematics background become middle school or high school math teachers. 

Many people with a Ph.D. in mathematics, particularly theoretical mathematics, work as postsecondary teachers in education institutions. They usually have a mix of teaching and research responsibilities. Some may do individual research or collaborate with other professors or mathematicians. Collaborators may work together at the same institution or from different locations.
Personality & Interest

Not sure if this career is suitable for you?

Take our FREE psychometry test to find out now!

Mathematicians typically have an interest in the Thinking, Creating Organizing interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Thinking interest area indicates a focus on researching, investigating, and increasing the understanding of natural laws. The Creating interest area indicates a focus on being original and imaginative, and working with artistic media. The Organizing interest area indicates a focus on working with information and processes to keep things arranged in orderly systems. 

If you are not sure whether you have a Thinking or Creating or Organizing interest which might fit with a career as a mathematician, you can take a career test to measure your interests. 

Mathematicians should also possess the following specific qualities: 

Analytical skills. Mathematicians use mathematical techniques and models to analyze large amounts of data. They must be precise and accurate in their analysis. 


Communication skills. Mathematicians must interact with and propose solutions to people who may not have extensive knowledge of mathematics. 


Math skills. Mathematicians use statistics, calculus, and linear algebra to develop their models and analyses. 


Problem-solving skills. Mathematicians must devise new solutions to problems encountered by scientists or engineers.
Related Careers

Related Courses



Why Edumetry?
Neutral Entity
We are a neutral party providing unbias opinions and content of courses, not pushing you unnecessary information.
Free Services
All of our services are provided to students free of charge.
Psychometric Test Profile
We are the one-of-its-kind intelligent career test system that recommends courses according to your personality profile.
Support Edumetry

Edumetry exists to encourage education in Malaysia.

If you find our free services helpful, kindly support us by fully making use of all our features:

  • Psychometry Test
  • Course Matching
  • Schedule Campus Tour
  • Speak to a representative
  • Course application

And of course, share Edumetry with your friends!

Your support will help keep Edumetry alive for future generations to come.


I'm Interested
Back To Career Details
Whatsapp Button
Events