International Benchmarking of US Mathematics Research (1997)

Summary: The United States is clearly preeminent in mathematics today. The field is thriving in terms of both quality and opportunities. Not only are there stellar researchers in all fields at American institutions, but they are backed by a broad and active research community. Mathematical research in the United States has many links with science, engineering, and technology and is broadening its contacts with education at all levels. The United States continues to attract some of the best graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from all over the world; a substantial portion of active research mathematicians now in the United States come from outside the United States. But we are in danger of losing our preeminent position if we do not face some critical issues and challenges. Some critical issues and challenges that must be faced include the health of research universities, the diminishing number of American students applying to graduate school, the necessity of more interdisciplinary research, and the reduced commitment by U.S. industry to long-range research in mathematics.