Advancing mathematics and its applications in an increasingly digital, AI and data-driven world and empowering mathematical identities among current and aspiring mathematical scientists
We are delighted to publish the IMA’s new five-year strategy, following a consultation period over the last year across the organisation’s boards, committees and networks.
Celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2024, the IMA is rightfully proud of its achievements over the last six decades. We have developed educational and professional standards in support of those studying and working in mathematics and its applications; provided a suite of high-quality journals representing a broad spectrum of mathematical research; created unique, cross-community knowledge sharing and networking opportunities; and celebrated and promoted mathematics to new audiences. Our new strategy proposes to build on this legacy by continuing to develop new and exciting engagement opportunities to support a diverse and inclusive mathematics community and deliver public benefit.
An overwhelming sense of pride in being both a mathematical scientist and being part of the IMA, with its emphasis on mathematics and its applications, has been one of the key takeaways from the consultation period. Our plan aims to capitalise on this sense of belonging and community, and strategically plan in order to keep pace with rapid changes across society. We will focus on change which influences, and is influenced by, mathematics in order to meet the expectations of the different generations and stakeholders we represent.
2023-2028 Strategic Priority Areas
Our 2023-28 plan is mapped across three broad strategic priority areas:
- Advancing the mathematics profession and achieving our Mission
The IMA will play a major role in advancing mathematics and its applications and maintaining high standards of professional conduct. We will promote and guide education and training standards and support activities to attract and retain today’s and tomorrow’s mathematical scientists. We will develop our EDI strategy to create an inclusive culture within the IMA and across the mathematics and its applications community. - Securing a Sustainable IMA Future
We will modernise the governance model and infrastructure which underpin our services to the mathematics community to ensure they are fit for the future. We will monitor existing, and create new revenue streams and encourage a collaborative working culture. We will develop policies around environmental sustainability and social inclusivity while ensuring we have the right digital tools and systems to deliver our services safely and securely. Our activities will ensure the IMA remains a natural home for all those interested in mathematics and its applications, providing both local support through the branches, and targeted expertise through mentoring and special interest groups. - Showcase and Develop Mathematics for Societal Challenges
The IMA will foster and facilitate debate, discussion and learned output on key topics which affect society and the mathematical sciences community. This includes thought leadership and knowledge sharing on grand challenges where mathematical sciences will play a major role in shaping solutions, such as Climate Change, Artificial Intelligence and Disease Modelling. We will convene Special Interest Groups to develop these activities, building on our successful conference programme, journals and publications, and through new engagement opportunities including training, workshops, podcasts and digital content.
Like many learned societies, the IMA faces external challenges, from the impact of Open Access publishing on our principal revenue stream, to rising costs and inflationary pressures. Our five-year plan builds on our many successes and aims to identify further opportunities that a more hybrid and digital world can offer, as well as develop existing and new activities to support our community and generate new income.
Throughout the next five years, people and partnerships will remain at the heart of our activities. We will continue to provide successful IMA activities and services including our Branch network, MathsCareers website, conferences, events, workshops and publications whilst delivering public benefit.
Our delivery plan will also include review points for new and ongoing programmes to assess suitability for the future in line with our strategic goals and vision for the IMA for the next 60 years.
A number of projects and programmes are already in the pipeline, starting with the launch of our new mentoring platform in early 2024, IMA Exponential, to bring together experienced members from across our community of mathematicians in academia, business, government and the public sector, to provide advice, mentoring and support to other mathematicians seeking career development advice and/or achieve professional recognition.
We hope you enjoy reading our new Strategy. Please look out for further updates in the coming weeks and months on how to get involved in our new activities and, of course, celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2024!
Paul Glendinning FRSE FIMA, President, IMA
Rosalind Azouzi, Executive Director, IMA
