Mathematician

Summary

Mathematicians apply and develop mathematical principles to solve problems in all areas of the sciences, technology, social sciences, business, industry and commerce.

Duties & Tasks

Mathematicians may perform the following tasks:

  • apply geometry and calculus to design objects in fields such as architecture, computer graphics and robotics
  • analyse statistics to find predictive models for traffic flow, insurance risks, consumer research, market analysis and clinical trials
  • develop predictive models for financial markets and products for financial risk management
  • simulate processes in chemical, mining or agricultural industries by translating them into mathematical models
  • develop computer modelling for industrial design
  • develop and improve mathematical models to describe natural phenomena such as soil erosion, the weather and climate, ocean currents or biological behaviour
  • develop computer programs for use in mathematical modelling and problem-solving
  • design computer programs to make and break complex security codes, or investigate and develop schemes for information security
  • carry out network analysis for the study of road systems, airline routes, transport and communication systems
  • use linear programming for urban, regional and transport planning
  • engage in image and signal processing for astronomy, cartography and medical and radar imaging
  • analyse problems for the service, engineering or manufacturing sectors
  • develop communications technology and information theory
  • develop new mathematical structures, ranging across the areas of pure and applied mathematics, statistics, computing, operations research, commerce and industry
  • teach mathematics at school, VET and university level in Australia or overseas.

Specialisations

Applied Mathematician

An applied mathematician formulates and studies mathematical models of environmental, physical and social systems in order to understand and, where possible, optimise those systems.

Mathematical Analyst

A mathematical analyst analyses data and assesses risks within the finance and insurance industries, as well as market research, biosecurity and genetics.

Mathematical Modeller

A mathematical modeller constructs mathematical models (often via computer technology) to simulate real phenomena across a wide range of applications, including meteorology, geography and finance.

Pure Mathematician

A pure mathematician develops new mathematical structures and new approaches to solving existing problems, in order to further mathematical knowledge.

Scientific Programmer

A scientific programmer develops algorithms and computer programs for use in mathematical modelling, data analysis and problem-solving in fields such as industrial design, climate science and geoscience.

Personal Requirements

  • imagination
  • enjoy mathematics
  • analytical skills
  • initiative
  • perseverance
  • able to work independently or as part of a team
  • enjoy problem-solving.

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