MATHS
MISSING MILLIONS
funding for mathematical sciences research must reflect the value that it brings to the UK.
As well as being a vital area of science, the mathematical sciences are a crucial driver of research in all areas of sciences and technology. Many of today’s cutting-edge discoveries and innovations are driven by mathematical sciences research, including in artificial intelligence, climate modelling, cryptography, data science, quantum computing and more.
We have brought together a selection of case studies, with many more included in university Research Excellence Framework submissions.
An analysis by Deloitte estimated that, overall, the mathematical sciences contribute around £200bn to the UK economy, accounting for 10% of GDP. There is strong evidence that advanced maths skills boost productivity and command a high wage premium, with maths being ranked in the top three subjects for graduate earnings.
We have collated a summary of relevant labour market data, which was created for a series of data boards and interactive tools for The Maths Summit in 2024.
Maths Missing Millions
In January 2020, the government announced £300m in additional funding for mathematical sciences research. This enabled universities and research institutes to plan for appropriate investments over the coming five years. £124m of this funding was allocated to support nationally important projects, including research grants, institutes, fellowships, doctoral studentships and postdoctoral awards.
However, £176m of this additional investment was not deployed. CaMS urged the government to explain when it would be spent, including parliamentary questions and debates. Eventually, BEIS admitted that the maths missing millions would not be forthcoming. They advised that: “The UKRI Board took the difficult decision to advise BEIS ministers not to hypothecate a further uplift for the mathematical sciences at this stage.”
As a result, mathematical sciences research remains under-funded, with significant gaps in planned investment. According to research by CaMS, just 5% of EPRSC research grant funding is awarded to the mathematical sciences.
A new funding settlement is needed to redress the missing maths millions and to unlock the potential that the mathematical sciences can deliver for the future.
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Please email cams@connectpa.co.uk if you want to get involved in the campaign or if we can help with your work. You also can sign up for the CaMS newsletter using the form on this page.
We are always looking for help and suggestions to advance the mathematical sciences, including from new campaign supporters and industry partners.
We are always happy to help by sharing data and insights about the mathematical sciences, and with media queries and speaking opportunities, and policy briefings and visits.
