{"id":225180,"date":"2025-05-28T03:58:49","date_gmt":"2025-05-27T17:58:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/?p=870160"},"modified":"2025-05-28T03:58:49","modified_gmt":"2025-05-27T17:58:49","slug":"career-spotlight-mathematician-ages-14-18","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vibewire.com.au\/?p=225180","title":{"rendered":"Career Spotlight: Mathematician (Ages 14-18)"},"content":{"rendered":"
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5 Min Read<\/div>\n

\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
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What does a mathematician do?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Mathematicians 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. Math is also central to physics and astronomy roles.<\/p>\n

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\"Brent<\/a><\/figure>
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Brent Buffington, Europa Clipper’s mission design manager, working on the spacecraft’s trajectory in his office at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. <\/em><\/em><\/div>\n
Credit: NASA\/Jay R. Thompson<\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

What are some NASA careers that rely on mathematics?<\/strong><\/h2>\n