Media release
5 April 2011
For immediate release
Mathematics Matters – the role of maths in everyday life
Today, Lord Broers will entertain guests of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) at an afternoon reception at the House of Lords to celebrate the launch of the Mathematics Matters research
case studies. There will be a short address by Robert Leese, Director of the Knowledge Transfer Network for Industrial Mathematics and a question and answer session chaired by IMA President, Michael Walker.
Contemporary mathematics research affects the daily lives of billions worldwide, but most people don't realise the crucial role that mathematics plays. Industry and technology owe a great debt to modern mathematics
research, but because the underlying mathematics is often hidden, many do not appreciate its value.
The Mathematics Matters case studies have been written to help resolve this problem. They are designed to inform policy makers how mathematics research influences so many areas of modern life, while also
providing a satisfying level of detail for those with a more scientific background.
Professor Nigel Peake of Cambridge University who led the team from the IMA, said, ‘The UK is a world leader in many areas of the mathematical sciences, but the health of the discipline cannot be maintained without
the practical importance and value of the subject being recognised and appreciated. Investment in mathematics research promises superb returns for the future’.
The range of topics underpinned by mathematics is as extraordinary as it is surprising. Knot theory can help us understand how cells reproduce; a Formula 1 racing car and the latest Hollywood animated blockbuster
share a common mathematical heritage; and mathematics using the principles of evolution can help us squeeze the last drop of precious oil from mature fields. In all, 20 topics have been covered but this is just the tip of the iceberg.
The case studies present contemporary mathematical research in an accessible format and each case study also includes a technical supplement that explores the mathematics in more depth and provides references to
published research.
There are many more topics that can be covered and the IMA would like to continue working with other organisations that may have ideas for future case studies.
Notes for Editors
- The IMA is grateful for financial support from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). EPSRC is the main UK government agency for funding research and training in engineering and the physical sciences, investing more than £850 million
a year in a broad range of subjects – from mathematics to material science, and from information technology to structural engineering. www.epsrc.ac.uk
2. The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) is the UK’s learned and professional society for mathematics and its applications. It promotes mathematics research, education and careers, and the
use of mathematics in business, industry and commerce. Amongst its activities the IMA produces academic journals, organises conferences and engages with government. www.ima.org.uk
4. Contacts:
Dr John Meeson, Institute of Mathematics and its Applications
Phone: + 1702 356121
Dr John Johnston, Mathematics Promotion Unit
Phone: + 207 927 0804