The following was submitted as part of the CASE Newsletter for May 2026.

From foundational calculus courses serving thousands of students each year to advanced research in data science, machine learning, and computational modeling, Missouri S&T’s mathematics and statistics department continues to play a central role in the university’s academic and research mission. 

The department is preparing to launch new bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in data science beginning this fall, reflecting growing national demand for expertise in analytics, artificial intelligence, statistical learning, and predictive modeling. Developed collaboratively with faculty across campus, the programs will prepare students to work at the intersection of mathematics, statistics, and computing in fields ranging from engineering and cybersecurity to healthcare, manufacturing, and business analytics. 

Department faculty continue to distinguish themselves through research, teaching, and student mentorship. Faculty research spans applied and computational mathematics, data science, statistics, optimization, scientific machine learning, and interdisciplinary collaborations with researchers across science and engineering. The department’s research focus on computational and applied mathematics is unique in PhD granting mathematics departments in Missouri and aligns with the scientific and technological focus of Missouri S&T. The department maintains active research portfolios supported by organizations including the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, and the National Institutes of Health. 

This year, Dr. Yanzhi Zhang was named the inaugural Gary Havener Endowed Professor of Mathematics and Statistics in recognition of her internationally recognized work in computational mathematics and scientific computing. Dr. Zhang’s PhD student Jacob Hauck became the first mathematics and statistics student at Missouri S&T to receive the Department of Energy Office of Science Graduate Student Research Award, supporting advanced research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in scientific machine learning and computational mathematics. 

The department has also earned recognition for teaching innovation and student achievement. Dr. Wumaier Maimaitiyiming was named a 2025 Engineering Unleashed Fellow and received grant support for work connecting mathematical modeling to real-world applications in engineering and science. Missouri S&T students have likewise continued to excel in collegiate mathematics competitions, with the university earning top team honors in the Missouri Collegiate Mathematics Competition in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026! 

The department’s physical home is also entering a new chapter. Renovations to the historic Rolla Building, home of the mathematics and statistics department and a focal point of Missouri S&T’s developing Arrival District, are nearing completion. The updated space will further support collaboration, student engagement, and the department’s expanding role in data science and interdisciplinary research. 

As one of Missouri S&T’s largest instructional units, the mathematics and statistics department provides essential coursework supporting nearly every STEM discipline on campus. Through its teaching, research, and growing leadership in data science education, the department continues to help shape the analytical and technological future of Missouri S&T students.