Mathematicians

math data problem knowledge formula investigative science application conduct research algebra

Computational Mathematician, Cryptographer, Mathematician, Research Scientist

What they do:
Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
On the job, you would:
  • Address the relationships of quantities, magnitudes, and forms through the use of numbers and symbols.
  • Disseminate research by writing reports, publishing papers, or presenting at professional conferences.
  • Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences.

Knowledge

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Engineering and Technology

  • computers and electronics

Education and Training

  • teaching and course design

Skills

Basic Skills

  • using math to solve problems
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

People and Technology Systems

  • thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
  • figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it

Abilities

Math

  • choose the right type of math to solve a problem
  • add, subtract, multiply, or divide

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • read and understand what is written

Ideas and Logic

  • make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
  • use rules to solve problems

Visual Understanding

  • quickly compare groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.

They do well at jobs that need:

  • Analytical Thinking
  • Attention to Detail
  • Persistence
  • Achievement/Effort
  • Innovation
  • Initiative

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Analytical or scientific software

  • IBM SPSS Statistics Hot Technology
  • The MathWorks MATLAB Hot Technology In Demand

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint Hot Technology

Object or component oriented development software

  • C# Hot Technology In Demand
  • Perl Hot Technology

Education

Education: (rated 5 of 5)
doctoral degree or
master's degree
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training
Apprenticeship.gov

Job Outlook

Average
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
Local Salary Info
Find Jobs
See more details at O*NET OnLine about mathematicians.