National academy for the mathematical sciences: proposed focus and objectives

From 12 January to 25 February 2024, the government sought views to help develop objectives for creating a prospective Academy focused on mathematical sciences, and to explore how these objectives could be delivered.

The call for evidence received 53 written responses which were reviewed alongside feedback received from a series of virtual roundtables. In total, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) have spoken to over 100 people with key roles in the sector, with much enthusiasm expressed for the government’s ambition to support the establishment of an incipient National Academy focused on mathematical sciences.

From the responses received, it was clear that the sector agrees with the government on the importance and value of investing in mathematical skills and capabilities in the UK. The experience of many respondents also highlighted the challenges in doing so and the need to prioritise and be realistic on the objectives that can be realised, most notably in the short term.

Overall, the government heard a broad range of voices, from learned societies to businesses, but there was a consistent focus on several areas in particular.

The key themes that emerged from the call for evidence were:

• Speaking with one voice
• Ensuring mathematical skills support economic growth and create societal benefits
• Championing mathematical sciences
• The importance of education in mathematical sciences
• Promoting equality of opportunity at all levels of mathematics

In the response document, the government has reflected on the views expressed by the sector and as a result updated the draft objectives originally shared, to ensure the above themes are clearly represented.

The government, as part of the response, has also published draft requirements which we would expect an organisation that successfully applied for funding to be able to deliver, in order to achieve the objectives of an incipient National Academy focused on mathematical sciences. Recognising the invaluable insight the sector has offered so far, we are initially inviting comments on the draft requirements by 10 April 2024.

The government will then finalise the requirements and invite candidates interested in applying for government funding to apply via a competition – more detail on this process can be found at ‘next steps’ in the response document.

How to respond

Responses to the draft requirements shared in the response document should be emailed to: mathsacademyuk@dsit.gov.uk. The government would particularly welcome views on:

• if these requirements are appropriate for an incipient National Academy focused on Mathematical Sciences.
• if there are any key requirements missing, in both the short and longer-term.
• if the suggested time frame and split between shorter- and longer-term requirements are appropriate and realistic.

When responding, please state whether you are responding as an individual or representing the views of an organisation. We would also be grateful if you could provide your name and contact details (if you would be happy for DSIT to get in touch with you about your response) and limit your return to 1500 words. Please submit your response by 11:59pm on 10 April 2024.

Your response will be most useful if it is framed in direct response to the questions posed, though further comments and evidence are also welcome.

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