Pure Mathematicians in defense industry

  • Context: Math 
  • Thread starter Thread starter JG89
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the role of pure mathematicians in the defense industry, highlighting the limited demand for pure mathematics in favor of applied mathematics. While organizations like the NSA and FFRDCs such as RAND, CNA, and IDA actively seek PhDs in mathematics, the work is primarily applied rather than theoretical. Candidates are advised to consider smaller contractors with a focus on physics and mathematics, as larger companies like Raytheon and Boeing prioritize specific technical skills. Overall, a PhD in pure mathematics can serve as a strong foundation for applied roles in defense.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of applied mathematics and its relevance in defense applications
  • Familiarity with organizations like NSA, RAND, CNA, and IDA
  • Knowledge of the defense contracting landscape and its hiring practices
  • Insight into the differences between pure and applied mathematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific roles available for mathematics PhDs at the NSA
  • Explore the types of projects undertaken by FFRDCs like RAND and CNA
  • Investigate smaller defense contractors that prioritize mathematical and physics expertise
  • Learn about the applications of applied mathematics in defense technology
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for aspiring mathematicians, particularly those pursuing a PhD in pure mathematics, as well as professionals considering a career in the defense industry, including researchers and engineers focused on applied mathematics.

JG89
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Is there a need for pure mathematicians in the defense industry? I've tried looking online and one of the main requirements is that the person be knowledgeable about mathematics and physics, but this could be talking about mathematicians, physicists, or engineers.

P.S. I don't mean to sound rude, but please spare me any political and moral opinions that you may want to offer.
 
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We use a lot of mathematicians in software. I would encourage you to apply. It is fun work.
 
Pure mathematicians or applied mathematicians?

Also, I was planning on getting my phD in pure math. For career options it's between a mathematician doing research, or working in the defense industry, but either way I want the phD in pure math. Is this a problem?
 
Presumably you're aware that no one will hire you to do pure math in the defense industry. There are some places that will actively look for math PhDs, though, with NSA probably the most prominent. The studies and analysis FFRDCs (RAND, CNA, IDA) also recruit many science/math/engineering PhDs, though not to do work that's anything like academic math.

In the contractor world it's a tougher sell, for obvious reasons. One would probably be best off looking to smaller contracters that have a high proportion of physics and math types to begin with, rather than a big place (Raytheon, Boeing, etc.) that is looking more for specific skills to stick on a project.
 
JDGates said:
Presumably you're aware that no one will hire you to do pure math in the defense industry. There are some places that will actively look for math PhDs, though, with NSA probably the most prominent. The studies and analysis FFRDCs (RAND, CNA, IDA) also recruit many science/math/engineering PhDs, though not to do work that's anything like academic math.

In the contractor world it's a tougher sell, for obvious reasons. One would probably be best off looking to smaller contracters that have a high proportion of physics and math types to begin with, rather than a big place (Raytheon, Boeing, etc.) that is looking more for specific skills to stick on a project.

There is a lot of math work to be done in defense. It is of course all applied, but pure math is a good preparation for applied work me thinks.
 

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