STEM Jobs of the Future: Mathematics
Mathematics appears as part four in a series on STEM jobs of the future, written by Ashley Pereira and Jacqui Schlesinger. Read part one, on technology jobs, part two, on engineering jobs and part three on science jobs.
Nearly every occupation on the planet requires math skills. From basic calculations to complex algorithms, math skills apply in all industries. Demand for careers in mathematics is expected to grow by 27% between 2019 and 2029 — much faster than other fields.
Data architect
According to the MIT Technology Review, the average person spends 24 hours online every week. With so much browsing and posting, what happens to the information that users leave behind? Data architects work at the crossroads of mathematics and computer science. They design and build systems to store massive amounts of information and keep us and our data safe online. With a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or computer science, data architects can expect to earn $99,730 per year.
Space supply chain manager
On Earth, supply chain managers ensure products are manufactured and delivered on time, at low cost. Supply chain managers in space will monitor the supply of goods and raw materials between planets. Space supply chain managers will have to understand data related to finance, logistics, supply and demand, and resource availability. Will the rocket carrying products to sell to colonies on Mars arrive on time? You’re in charge! A bachelor’s degree in economics or operations management is needed, with an expected salary of $74,750.
Biostatistician
Using mathematical and medical data, biostatisticians identify new diseases, monitor clinical trials, and publish research. Clinical trials — such as for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine — require biostatisticians to design and monitor the trial, then analyze and present collected data. They work alongside doctors and other health care professionals to ensure new medicines are properly tested and effectively communicate the results. After completing a graduate degree, biostatisticians earn $92,030 per year.
Personalized medicine researcher
Personalized medicine promises to redefine how the health care system treats patients. Researchers examine DNA, blood type and other unique indicators to create customized treatments for each patient’s unique body chemistry. Most personalized medicine researchers begin their career as physicians. They earn a starting salary around $88,780 per year.
Hologram animator
Imagine walking into a hotel late at night after a long car ride. Who will check you in? Behind the counter appears a hologram — an image made by manipulating light, or sound waves, to create a moving display.
Hologram animators design holograms. They use machine learning to teach it a skill, then deploy the technology in daily use. Combining art, computer science, and mathematics, hologram animators will rival the work of robot engineers. Hologram animators will need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, digital animation, or a related field and can expect to earn $75,270.
Solve complex problems; learn how the universe works. Make sense of the world around you with careers in mathematics!
Jacqui Schlesinger is passionate about STEM education and career development. As a rising high school junior in the Boston area, she is involved with several organizations including Career In STEM, The Math Club of Lexington, her school’s STEM Education Club, and the Masshire MNWB Youth Committee. She also enjoys playing tennis, writing and exploring nature.
Ashley Pereira is a former middle and high school science teacher, and owner of Career In STEM. She creates engaging STEM career exploration resources to prepare middle school students to succeed in future STEM careers.