How is applied math research done

[ObHassell]

I was curious how research in applied math is done, the reason I'm curious is because I can't seem to believe that research is started with a question...like "what temperature will a cell freeze without killing the cell" for example. All I've ever seen is math modeling of a phenomenon. thank you

 

[Hepth]

It seems like it would pretty much be along those lines. If you're looking for funding you would attempt to come up with an original idea that could benefit someone/some company/Govt.
But remember a lot of the "easier" stuff will be done by people directly in those fields. You'd be surprised at how often mathematical modeling is used by Physicists/Biologists/Geologists/ALL SCIENTISTS with/without the aid of an Applied Mathematician.

Check out UofMichigans applied math page:
http://www.math.lsa.umich.edu/aim-grad/faculty.html

They pair advisors (one math, one something else) for every PhD student.