Research careers in mathematics (without teaching)

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SUMMARY

Research careers in mathematics exist outside of teaching, particularly within government organizations like the NSA and DARPA, which hire mathematicians for roles involving cryptography and applied mathematics. The NSA focuses on algebra and number theory, while DARPA emphasizes applied math and engineering. Although some universities offer research positions without teaching responsibilities, these opportunities are limited and often underpaid. Notable institutions such as the Poincaré Institute in France and Princeton's Institute for Advanced Study also provide avenues for mathematicians, but they require exceptional qualifications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cryptography and its mathematical foundations
  • Familiarity with applied mathematics and engineering principles
  • Knowledge of algebra and number theory
  • Awareness of research institutions like the Poincaré Institute and Princeton's IAS
NEXT STEPS
  • Research career opportunities at the NSA focusing on cryptography
  • Explore DARPA's applied mathematics and engineering job openings
  • Investigate research positions at the Poincaré Institute and Princeton's IAS
  • Learn about the role of mathematicians in non-academic settings
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, job seekers in research fields, and individuals interested in non-teaching careers in mathematics.

alexmahone
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Are there any research careers in mathematics that don't involve teaching?
 
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There exist companies which have research teams which might include mathematicians- but my understanding is that their job is largely using numerical methods to help the others on the team solve problems. Some universities have mathematics research positions but those are very few and typically filled by people who, while teaching, published impressive research.
 
I would love to do maths all my life but I don't want to teach. What kind of job should I get?
 
Alexmahone said:
I would love to do maths all my life but I don't want to teach. What kind of job should I get?

NSA, DARPA, and other government organizations hire mathematicians.

---------- Post added at 11:14 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:01 AM ----------

dwsmith said:
NSA, DARPA, and other government organizations hire mathematicians.

You may want to note that the NSA is mainly crypto, ie algebra and number theory.

DARPA and the others are going to be applied math/engineering type positions.
 
In France, there's the Poincaré's institute, but you've got to be really good :D I think it's the same for Princeton's IAS
 
In my opinion there is no career in mathematics beside a teacher though maths is a very important subject because from past few years science is ruling.
 
anky2930 said:
In my opinion there is no career in mathematics beside a teacher though maths is a very important subject because from past few years science is ruling.

And your opinion is wrong, as can be proven by a single counter example (and there are many)

CB
 
Last edited:
anky2930 said:
In my opinion there is no career in mathematics beside a teacher though maths is a very important subject because from past few years science is ruling.
(Surprised)
 
Moo said:
In France, there's the Poincaré's institute, but you've got to be really good :D I think it's the same for Princeton's IAS

I have heard tale of permanent jobs (in arbitrary universities) in France without teaching. However, they do not pay very well...
 
  • #10
dwsmith said:
NSA, DARPA, and other government organizations hire mathematicians.

---------- Post added at 11:14 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:01 AM ----------



You may want to note that the NSA is mainly crypto, ie algebra and number theory.

DARPA and the others are going to be applied math/engineering type positions.

Actually, I would say that NSA is a remarkable place, because it is about the only non-academic institution in the world where you can pretty much do any math you want. They use just about every field of math at NSA.
 

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