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Whither Mathematics Research ?

Whither Mathematics Research ?. David Harman Head of Mathematical Sciences. State of Maths Research. On the face of it, Maths research is in good shape. RAE 2008 outcome; IRM 2010. High quality research flourishing in a wide range of universities.

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Whither Mathematics Research ?

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  1. Whither Mathematics Research ? David Harman Head of Mathematical Sciences

  2. State of Maths Research • On the face of it, Maths research is in good shape. • RAE 2008 outcome; IRM 2010. • High quality research flourishing in a wide range of universities. • IRM says that ‘diversity and distributedness’ should be honoured

  3. State of Maths Research • But, IRM report widespread concern in community about EPSRC’s commitment to Maths and, in turn, • EPSRC may be frustrated that the community has not bought into its vision of future research agenda.

  4. Nature of Maths Research • Maths not typical of disciplines in EPSRC remit. • Does not need large-scale equipment and facilities. • Does not need concentration in major groups to flourish. • Does need funding for visitors, collaborations and PhD students. • Much research activity is not funded by RCs - QR may be the largest single source of funding. • Researchers also adept at attracting funding from wide range of sources eg other RCs, industry, charities, EU

  5. Shaping Capability • Should EPSRC to fund more of what already exists? Or, • Should it focus funding on leaders for maximum impact at world level and across disciplines ? • Shaping Capability agenda appears to imply the latter. • This agenda driven by choosing what areas to fund based on excellence and national need.

  6. Shaping Capability in Maths • Focus in shaping is on areas or topics, not mechanisms. • Maths team is gathering knowledge and data. • Currently examining connections within Maths and between Maths and other disciplines. • Will need a dialogue with the community on best way forward.

  7. Simplifying Administration • Administration budget reduced by ~33% over 4 years. • EPSRC will increase staff effort on ‘programme delivery’. • Reduce the number of different schemes to save money. • Adoption of Shared Service Centre by all RCs. • Maths team will argue for retention of schemes that characterise the mathematical sciences eg small grants.

  8. International Review 2010 • Publication of report and supporting evidence is imminent. • EPSRC view – too many recommendations, no prioritisation. • Reflection of community concerns not backed by critical analysis. • But there is a clear need for better dialogue between EPSRC and the community to develop a better understanding of each other’s perspectives. • Discussion with CMS with a proposal for CMS/EPSRC/SAT meeting in May to look at improved communications. • EPSRC will respond to recommendations in the autumn.

  9. Conclusion • In mathematical terms, maths research has a bright future. • UK is 3rd or 4th in world terms based on citation data. • RAE and IRM confirm high quality of research among widespread groups. • In organisation terms, there needs to be a better understanding between the community and EPSRC on how and what to fund. • Needs a framework for making choices within shaping capability. • Needs recognition by EPSRC that Maths is not the same as Engineering or Physical Sciences.

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