\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCareer Spotlight: Mathematician (Ages 14-18)\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/nhq202102180053large.jpg?w=1536\")
<\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\nWhat does a mathematician do?<\/strong><\/h2>\nMathematicians use their expert knowledge of math to solve problems and gain new understanding about how our world works. They analyze data and create mathematical models to predict results based on changes in variables. Many different fields rely heavily on math, such as engineering, finance, and the sciences.<\/p>\n
Using math to solve real-world problems is called \u201capplied math.\u201d This is different from \u201cabstract math,\u201d which refers to the study of the structure of mathematics.<\/p>\n
At NASA, applied math enables new discoveries in space science, astronomy, and aeronautics. For example, professionals might use math techniques to calculate the mass or thrust capability of rockets. Others might work to analyze calorie and food consumption rates aboard the International Space Station.\u00a0Math is also central to physics and astronomy roles.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n![\"Brent](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/buff-buffington-large.jpg?w=1280\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nBrent Buffington, Europa Clipper\u2019s mission design manager, working on the spacecraft\u2019s trajectory in his office at NASA\u2019s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. <\/em><\/em><\/div>\nCredit: NASA\/Jay R. Thompson<\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat are some NASA careers that rely on mathematics?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Astronomer<\/strong>: Uses skills in advanced math and physics, computer programming, and more to learn about the universe.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Mathematical modeler<\/strong>: Uses math to create models that help explain or predict how processes behave over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Electrical engineer<\/strong>: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Data analyst<\/strong>: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Computer scientist<\/strong>: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the\u00a0use of special software for complex operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Forebody](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/lrc-2022-h1-p-x-59-4large.jpg?w=1920\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nA technician works on the X-59 model during testing in the low-speed wind tunnel at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, California. These tests provided measurements of wind flow angle around the aircraft\u2019s nose and confirmed computer predictions made using computational fluid dynamics software tools. This is part of NASA\u2019s Quesst mission, which plans to help enable supersonic air travel over land.<\/em><\/div>\nCredit: Lockheed Martin<\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nHow can I get a job using applied math skills?<\/strong><\/h2>\nIf you have an affinity for math, high school is a good time to grow those skills. Taking challenging math courses will help build a strong foundation. Participating in extracurricular activities that use math, such as robotics teams or engineering clubs, will also provide helpful opportunities to apply and hone your skills.<\/p>\n
Careers in applied math vary widely. The type of math skills you\u2019ll need depends on which career you\u2019re interested in \u2013 such as astronomer or engineer \u2013 and what mathematical tools you\u2019ll need in that job. Students may pursue a degree in applied mathematics or in their chosen field, knowing they will need to take math courses. Current job openings, guidance counselors, and mentors can shed light on the best academic path. With this information, you can begin planning for the skills and education you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n
Most math-heavy careers will require at least a four-year degree in the student\u2019s primary field of study along with several college-level math courses. Other careers may require a master\u2019s or Ph.D.<\/p>\n
How can I start preparing today to become a mathematician?<\/strong><\/h2>\nReady to start flexing your math muscles? NASA STEM provides a variety of hands-on activities<\/a> you can use to practice applying math principles to real-world situations in space exploration and aviation. These activities are available for a variety of ages and skill levels. NASA also hosts student challenges and competitions<\/a> that offer great experience for those looking to level up their applied math skills and make genuine contributions to helpful new technologies.<\/p>\nNASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit\u00a0NASA\u2019s Internships website<\/a>\u00a0to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/psss-width-1320.jpg?w=1320\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nParticipants in the 25th Annual NASA Planetary Science Summer School work together on a mathematical project.<\/div>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAdvice from NASA mathematicians<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve \u201ccrunching numbers,\u201d but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
\u2013 Jennifer Wiseman, senior astrophysicist, Hubble Space Telescope<\/li>\n - Research specific fields where mathematics is applied (data science, engineering, finance) and seek internships or shadowing opportunities to experience these environments firsthand. Connect with math professionals for informational interviews and join mathematical communities or organizations related to areas that interest you.
\u2013 Justin Rice, Earth Science Data and Information Systems deputy project manager, Data Systems<\/li>\n - Curiosity, willingness to learn, and good communication skills (writing, speaking, illustrating) are important. The last is because although numbers and data are cool, the real magic is being able to interpret them in a way that helps people make business or policy decisions that improve people\u2019s lives.
\u2013 Nancy Carney, allocation specialist, NASA High-End Computing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n- \u201cBig Data\u201d jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
\u2013 Kenneth Carpenter, Hubble Space Telescope operations project scientist and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope ground system scientist<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAdditional Resources<\/strong><\/h2>\nSpace Math @ NASA<\/a><\/p>\nCareers at NASA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nKeep Exploring<\/div>\nDiscover More Topics From NASA<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\nWhat does a mathematician do?<\/strong><\/h2>\nMathematicians use their expert knowledge of math to solve problems and gain new understanding about how our world works. They analyze data and create mathematical models to predict results based on changes in variables. Many different fields rely heavily on math, such as engineering, finance, and the sciences.<\/p>\n
Using math to solve real-world problems is called \u201capplied math.\u201d This is different from \u201cabstract math,\u201d which refers to the study of the structure of mathematics.<\/p>\n
At NASA, applied math enables new discoveries in space science, astronomy, and aeronautics. For example, professionals might use math techniques to calculate the mass or thrust capability of rockets. Others might work to analyze calorie and food consumption rates aboard the International Space Station.\u00a0Math is also central to physics and astronomy roles.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nBrent Buffington, Europa Clipper\u2019s mission design manager, working on the spacecraft\u2019s trajectory in his office at NASA\u2019s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. <\/em><\/em><\/div>\nCredit: NASA\/Jay R. Thompson<\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat are some NASA careers that rely on mathematics?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Astronomer<\/strong>: Uses skills in advanced math and physics, computer programming, and more to learn about the universe.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Mathematical modeler<\/strong>: Uses math to create models that help explain or predict how processes behave over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Electrical engineer<\/strong>: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Data analyst<\/strong>: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Computer scientist<\/strong>: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the\u00a0use of special software for complex operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\nA technician works on the X-59 model during testing in the low-speed wind tunnel at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, California. These tests provided measurements of wind flow angle around the aircraft\u2019s nose and confirmed computer predictions made using computational fluid dynamics software tools. This is part of NASA\u2019s Quesst mission, which plans to help enable supersonic air travel over land.<\/em><\/div>\nCredit: Lockheed Martin<\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nHow can I get a job using applied math skills?<\/strong><\/h2>\nIf you have an affinity for math, high school is a good time to grow those skills. Taking challenging math courses will help build a strong foundation. Participating in extracurricular activities that use math, such as robotics teams or engineering clubs, will also provide helpful opportunities to apply and hone your skills.<\/p>\n
Careers in applied math vary widely. The type of math skills you\u2019ll need depends on which career you\u2019re interested in \u2013 such as astronomer or engineer \u2013 and what mathematical tools you\u2019ll need in that job. Students may pursue a degree in applied mathematics or in their chosen field, knowing they will need to take math courses. Current job openings, guidance counselors, and mentors can shed light on the best academic path. With this information, you can begin planning for the skills and education you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n
Most math-heavy careers will require at least a four-year degree in the student\u2019s primary field of study along with several college-level math courses. Other careers may require a master\u2019s or Ph.D.<\/p>\n
How can I start preparing today to become a mathematician?<\/strong><\/h2>\nReady to start flexing your math muscles? NASA STEM provides a variety of hands-on activities<\/a> you can use to practice applying math principles to real-world situations in space exploration and aviation. These activities are available for a variety of ages and skill levels. NASA also hosts student challenges and competitions<\/a> that offer great experience for those looking to level up their applied math skills and make genuine contributions to helpful new technologies.<\/p>\nNASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit\u00a0NASA\u2019s Internships website<\/a>\u00a0to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nParticipants in the 25th Annual NASA Planetary Science Summer School work together on a mathematical project.<\/div>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAdvice from NASA mathematicians<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve \u201ccrunching numbers,\u201d but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
\u2013 Jennifer Wiseman, senior astrophysicist, Hubble Space Telescope<\/li>\n - Research specific fields where mathematics is applied (data science, engineering, finance) and seek internships or shadowing opportunities to experience these environments firsthand. Connect with math professionals for informational interviews and join mathematical communities or organizations related to areas that interest you.
\u2013 Justin Rice, Earth Science Data and Information Systems deputy project manager, Data Systems<\/li>\n - Curiosity, willingness to learn, and good communication skills (writing, speaking, illustrating) are important. The last is because although numbers and data are cool, the real magic is being able to interpret them in a way that helps people make business or policy decisions that improve people\u2019s lives.
\u2013 Nancy Carney, allocation specialist, NASA High-End Computing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n- \u201cBig Data\u201d jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
\u2013 Kenneth Carpenter, Hubble Space Telescope operations project scientist and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope ground system scientist<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAdditional Resources<\/strong><\/h2>\nSpace Math @ NASA<\/a><\/p>\nCareers at NASA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nKeep Exploring<\/div>\nDiscover More Topics From NASA<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n
![\"Brent](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/buff-buffington-large.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>What are some NASA careers that rely on mathematics?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Astronomer<\/strong>: Uses skills in advanced math and physics, computer programming, and more to learn about the universe.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Mathematical modeler<\/strong>: Uses math to create models that help explain or predict how processes behave over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Electrical engineer<\/strong>: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Data analyst<\/strong>: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n- Computer scientist<\/strong>: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the\u00a0use of special software for complex operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\nA technician works on the X-59 model during testing in the low-speed wind tunnel at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, California. These tests provided measurements of wind flow angle around the aircraft\u2019s nose and confirmed computer predictions made using computational fluid dynamics software tools. This is part of NASA\u2019s Quesst mission, which plans to help enable supersonic air travel over land.<\/em><\/div>\nCredit: Lockheed Martin<\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nHow can I get a job using applied math skills?<\/strong><\/h2>\nIf you have an affinity for math, high school is a good time to grow those skills. Taking challenging math courses will help build a strong foundation. Participating in extracurricular activities that use math, such as robotics teams or engineering clubs, will also provide helpful opportunities to apply and hone your skills.<\/p>\n
Careers in applied math vary widely. The type of math skills you\u2019ll need depends on which career you\u2019re interested in \u2013 such as astronomer or engineer \u2013 and what mathematical tools you\u2019ll need in that job. Students may pursue a degree in applied mathematics or in their chosen field, knowing they will need to take math courses. Current job openings, guidance counselors, and mentors can shed light on the best academic path. With this information, you can begin planning for the skills and education you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n
Most math-heavy careers will require at least a four-year degree in the student\u2019s primary field of study along with several college-level math courses. Other careers may require a master\u2019s or Ph.D.<\/p>\n
How can I start preparing today to become a mathematician?<\/strong><\/h2>\nReady to start flexing your math muscles? NASA STEM provides a variety of hands-on activities<\/a> you can use to practice applying math principles to real-world situations in space exploration and aviation. These activities are available for a variety of ages and skill levels. NASA also hosts student challenges and competitions<\/a> that offer great experience for those looking to level up their applied math skills and make genuine contributions to helpful new technologies.<\/p>\nNASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit\u00a0NASA\u2019s Internships website<\/a>\u00a0to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nParticipants in the 25th Annual NASA Planetary Science Summer School work together on a mathematical project.<\/div>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAdvice from NASA mathematicians<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve \u201ccrunching numbers,\u201d but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
\u2013 Jennifer Wiseman, senior astrophysicist, Hubble Space Telescope<\/li>\n - Research specific fields where mathematics is applied (data science, engineering, finance) and seek internships or shadowing opportunities to experience these environments firsthand. Connect with math professionals for informational interviews and join mathematical communities or organizations related to areas that interest you.
\u2013 Justin Rice, Earth Science Data and Information Systems deputy project manager, Data Systems<\/li>\n - Curiosity, willingness to learn, and good communication skills (writing, speaking, illustrating) are important. The last is because although numbers and data are cool, the real magic is being able to interpret them in a way that helps people make business or policy decisions that improve people\u2019s lives.
\u2013 Nancy Carney, allocation specialist, NASA High-End Computing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n- \u201cBig Data\u201d jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
\u2013 Kenneth Carpenter, Hubble Space Telescope operations project scientist and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope ground system scientist<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAdditional Resources<\/strong><\/h2>\nSpace Math @ NASA<\/a><\/p>\nCareers at NASA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nKeep Exploring<\/div>\nDiscover More Topics From NASA<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n
- \n
- Mathematical modeler<\/strong>: Uses math to create models that help explain or predict how processes behave over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \n
- Electrical engineer<\/strong>: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \n
- Data analyst<\/strong>: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \n
- Computer scientist<\/strong>: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the\u00a0use of special software for complex operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>
\n A technician works on the X-59 model during testing in the low-speed wind tunnel at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, California. These tests provided measurements of wind flow angle around the aircraft\u2019s nose and confirmed computer predictions made using computational fluid dynamics software tools. This is part of NASA\u2019s Quesst mission, which plans to help enable supersonic air travel over land.<\/em><\/div>\nCredit: Lockheed Martin<\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nHow can I get a job using applied math skills?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
If you have an affinity for math, high school is a good time to grow those skills. Taking challenging math courses will help build a strong foundation. Participating in extracurricular activities that use math, such as robotics teams or engineering clubs, will also provide helpful opportunities to apply and hone your skills.<\/p>\n
Careers in applied math vary widely. The type of math skills you\u2019ll need depends on which career you\u2019re interested in \u2013 such as astronomer or engineer \u2013 and what mathematical tools you\u2019ll need in that job. Students may pursue a degree in applied mathematics or in their chosen field, knowing they will need to take math courses. Current job openings, guidance counselors, and mentors can shed light on the best academic path. With this information, you can begin planning for the skills and education you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n
Most math-heavy careers will require at least a four-year degree in the student\u2019s primary field of study along with several college-level math courses. Other careers may require a master\u2019s or Ph.D.<\/p>\n
How can I start preparing today to become a mathematician?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Ready to start flexing your math muscles? NASA STEM provides a variety of hands-on activities<\/a> you can use to practice applying math principles to real-world situations in space exploration and aviation. These activities are available for a variety of ages and skill levels. NASA also hosts student challenges and competitions<\/a> that offer great experience for those looking to level up their applied math skills and make genuine contributions to helpful new technologies.<\/p>\n
NASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are held each year in spring, summer, and fall; visit\u00a0NASA\u2019s Internships website<\/a>\u00a0to learn about important deadlines and current opportunities.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n Participants in the 25th Annual NASA Planetary Science Summer School work together on a mathematical project.<\/div>\nNASA<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAdvice from NASA mathematicians<\/strong><\/h2>\n
- \n
- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve \u201ccrunching numbers,\u201d but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
\u2013 Jennifer Wiseman, senior astrophysicist, Hubble Space Telescope<\/li>\n - Research specific fields where mathematics is applied (data science, engineering, finance) and seek internships or shadowing opportunities to experience these environments firsthand. Connect with math professionals for informational interviews and join mathematical communities or organizations related to areas that interest you.
\u2013 Justin Rice, Earth Science Data and Information Systems deputy project manager, Data Systems<\/li>\n - Curiosity, willingness to learn, and good communication skills (writing, speaking, illustrating) are important. The last is because although numbers and data are cool, the real magic is being able to interpret them in a way that helps people make business or policy decisions that improve people\u2019s lives.
\u2013 Nancy Carney, allocation specialist, NASA High-End Computing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n- \n
- \u201cBig Data\u201d jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
\u2013 Kenneth Carpenter, Hubble Space Telescope operations project scientist and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope ground system scientist<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAdditional Resources<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Space Math @ NASA<\/a><\/p>\n
Careers at NASA<\/a><\/p>\n
\n\n\n\nKeep Exploring<\/div>\nDiscover More Topics From NASA<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n
- \u201cBig Data\u201d jobs are one area that might be very active in terms of internships, as there is huge demand for people who can help to process the incredible amounts of data that are being created in various areas. These include space science, but also everyday areas, as companies across the board build up huge customer datasets and seek ways to analyze and interpret that information.
- Ask yourself if you enjoy mathematics and if you like problem solving and puzzles. Mathematics careers rarely involve \u201ccrunching numbers,\u201d but rather thinking of ideas and theories (for theoretical mathematics) or how to manage data, graphics, machine learning, and related computer and data skills (for applied mathematics).
- Computer scientist<\/strong>: Writes code that involves math, programming, data processing, and the\u00a0use of special software for complex operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Data analyst<\/strong>: Uses skills such as algebra and statistics to find meaningful patterns in data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Electrical engineer<\/strong>: Relies on trigonometry, calculus, and other math skills to design, test, and operate electrical systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n