Mathematics: intellectual endeavor, production factor, key technology, key to key technologies?

Mathematics is all of these; the last three of its facets are not well known, though. They have been the focus of the research and development in the Berlin-based DFG Research Center MATHEON in the last twelve years. Through these activities, MATHEON has become an international trademark. Its mission and its strategies for carrying out creative, application-driven research in mathematics and cooperating in the solution of complex problems in key technologies are by now a role model for the development of many other centers.

Modern key technologies have become highly sophisticated, integrating aspects of engineering, computer, business and other sciences. At the same time, the innovation cycles get shorter and shorter. These simultaneous challenges can be mastered only by qualitatively and quantitatively rigorous methods. And that is where mathematics is indispensable.

Flexible mathematical models, as well as fast and accurate methods for numerical simulation and optimization, open new possibilities to handle the indicated complexities, to react quickly, and to explore new options. Researchers in mathematical fields such as optimization, discrete mathematics, numerical analysis, scientific computing, applied analysis and stochastic analysis have to work hand in hand with scientists and engineers to fully exploit this potential and to strengthen the transversal role of mathematics in solving the challenging problems in key technologies.

This book presents in seven chapters the research highlights of the research work carried out in the MATHEON application areas: Life Sciences, Networks, Production, Electronic and Photonic Devices, Finance, Visualization, and Education. The chapters summarize many of the contributions, put them in the context of current mathematical research activities, and outline their impact in various key technologies. To make some of the results more easily accessible to the general public, a large number of “showcases” are presented that illustrate a few success stories.