MPS Mathematical Sciences

The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS) supports multiple research programs at the frontiers of discovery in theoretical and applied mathematical sciences. These programs play an essential role in the U.S. innovation engine that drives the economy, strengthens national security and enhances quality of life. Mathematical sciences are crucial to everyday life, from securing financial transactions and predicting the weather to building effective search engines and designing industrial manufacturing facilities. These systems and many more rely on algorithms, number theory, algebraic geometry and modeling techniques within computational or applied mathematics and statistics. Mathematical sciences also play an essential role in new and emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing and more. NSF MPS programs in mathematical sciences foster interdisciplinary partnerships across all fields of science, engineering and technology and many industrial sectors. They also support students and early-career researchers who will strengthen America's science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce as the next generation of mathematical science professionals. The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS) advances human understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe at all scales, from the smallest quantum effects inside atoms to the forces that drive the movement and structure of galaxies. NSF MPS harnesses the collective power of the mathematical and physical science communities to achieve the fundamental breakthroughs required for innovations that strengthen America's economic competitiveness, security and quality of life. In addition to supporting breakthrough scientific research, MPS is continuously working to expand and strengthen the science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce of the future. MPS does this by supporting a broad range of training and mentorship opportunities for students and early-career researchers across the U.S.