Mathematicians
Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
How AI Impacts Each Task
11 tasks analyzed
Develop computational methods for solving problems that occur in areas of science and engineering or that come from applications in business or industry.
Apply mathematical theories and techniques to the solution of practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields.
Develop mathematical or statistical models of phenomena to be used for analysis or for computational simulation.
Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences.
Assemble sets of assumptions and explore the consequences of each set.
Address the relationships of quantities, magnitudes, and forms through the use of numbers and symbols.
Disseminate research by writing reports, publishing papers, or presenting at professional conferences.
Perform computations and apply methods of numerical analysis to data.
Design, analyze, and decipher encryption systems designed to transmit military, political, financial, or law-enforcement-related information in code.
Develop new principles and new relationships between existing mathematical principles to advance mathematical science.
Conduct research to extend mathematical knowledge in traditional areas, such as algebra, geometry, probability, and logic.
| Task | AI Capability | Risk | Time % | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Develop computational methods for solving problems that occur in areas of science and engineering or that come from applications in business or industry. | 55Estimated | 49.0% | 15% | |
| Apply mathematical theories and techniques to the solution of practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields. | 60Estimated | 51.0% | 15% | |
| Develop mathematical or statistical models of phenomena to be used for analysis or for computational simulation. | 61.08Observed | 51.4% | 15% | |
| Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences. | 50.92Observed | 47.4% | 8% | |
| Assemble sets of assumptions and explore the consequences of each set. | 50Estimated | 47.0% | 10% | |
| Address the relationships of quantities, magnitudes, and forms through the use of numbers and symbols. | 48.32Observed | 46.3% | 8% | |
| Disseminate research by writing reports, publishing papers, or presenting at professional conferences. | 68.47Observed | 42.4% | 8% | |
| Perform computations and apply methods of numerical analysis to data. | 95Estimated | 87.2% | 8% | |
| Design, analyze, and decipher encryption systems designed to transmit military, political, financial, or law-enforcement-related information in code. | 60.3Observed | 51.1% | 5% | |
| Develop new principles and new relationships between existing mathematical principles to advance mathematical science. | 63.68Observed | 52.5% | 4% | |
| Conduct research to extend mathematical knowledge in traditional areas, such as algebra, geometry, probability, and logic. | 66.38Observed | 53.6% | 4% |
Skill Impact Analysis
AI-Vulnerable Skills (6)
High reliance on Mathematics is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Mathematics is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Reading Comprehension is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Information Ordering is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
Memorization is AI-vulnerable but has moderate importance in this role. AI tools may handle this; focus on higher-value skills.
Programming is AI-vulnerable but has moderate importance in this role. AI tools may handle this; focus on higher-value skills.
AI-Resistant Skills (11)
Complex Problem Solving is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Adaptability/Flexibility is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Leadership is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Coordination is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Instructing is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Social Perceptiveness is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Persuasion is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Negotiation is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
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Risk reduction and salary impact are estimates based on skill gap analysis, course relevance, and labor market data. Actual results vary by individual circumstance.
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Score History
Risk score over 3 scoring runs
overall change
Education & Training
Percentage of workers at each education and training level
Training Provided After Hiring
How long it typically takes to learn on the job
Related News
Recent articles about AI affecting this occupation
OpenAI forms math advisory group as its AI resolves more than 100 open problems
OpenAI's models have successfully solved over 100 previously open mathematical problems, prompting the creation of a dedicated advisory group. However, this new oversight board will not have the authority to slow down or redirect research.
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A newly formed committee is investigating how artificial intelligence will alter the landscape of mathematical research and education. The group aims to guide mathematicians on integrating AI tools without losing fundamental analytical skills.
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Twenty-five Fields Medalists have issued a declaration regarding AI's growing role in mathematics. This controversy serves as an early warning sign for how AI could disrupt experimental science and high-level knowledge work.
25 Fields Medalists warn of AI's growing misalignment in math research
Top mathematicians are sounding the alarm over artificial intelligence systems failing to align with the actual needs of mathematical research. The declaration signals growing friction between AI developers and elite academics.
Last scored March 14, 2026 · Based on BLS employment data and O*NET task analysis