How Berlin Mathematics Is Shaping the Future

Emphasis is placed on mathematical principles for the use of ever larger amounts of data in life and material sciences, energy and network research, as well as the humanities and social sciences

MATH+ is a cross-institutional and transdisciplinary Cluster of Excellence where researchers will explore and further develop new approaches in application-oriented mathematics. Emphasis is placed on mathematical principles for the use of ever larger amounts of data in life and material sciences, energy and network research, as well as the humanities and social sciences.

The aim is to boost not only scientific progress, but also technological innovation and the comprehensive understanding of social processes. MATH+ is a joint project of the three major universities in Berlin – Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Technische Universität Berlin – and integrates, both conceptually and structurally, the Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastics and the Zuse Institute Berlin.

MATH + embraces many areas of research beyond technology-oriented research. In doing so, the researchers involved are seeking to use mathematics to open up new topics in selected future fields. They are further considering unusual and new collaborations on socially relevant topics, particularly with colleagues from the humanities and social sciences.

In addition to specific research projects, a new creative element called the “Topic Development Lab” will also be established to provide intellectual freedom and a framework for widely different research formats. This will bring together world-renowned scientists from all disciplines to explore new research topics. MATH+ itself is also to become a focus of research: A sociological study will analyze the Cluster of Excellence’s role in the career development of young mathematicians and its influence on career decisions and academic selection processes.

MATH+ aims to have a long-lasting impact on the development of mathematics both in Germany and the rest of the world. Great significance is therefore placed on research training and the education of talented young researchers.