If you have the necessary math know-how, it can really pay.

John Tate, a scientist from the University of Texas at Austin was recently awarded the Abel Prize--thought of as math's Nobel--for his work with Algebraic Number Theory. It's one of the math principles that lies at the heart of internet security, a facet of everyday living in today's world.

It may not seem like a spectacular feat for a group of university mathematicians to solve an equation, but when that equation is 140 years old (not to mention, has implications for many other scientific fields), it begins to catch some attention.

Many people find themselves on Facebook and other social networking sites to avoid studying. But for some, Facebook IS a study.

Researchers from UNC Chapel Hill are using math to understand the nature of social patterns and how networks evolve.

Because human social networks can be complicated, it has been difficult for researchers to understand them until now.

Check out this interview of Shing-Tung Yau, the mathematician known for conceiving the math behind string theory.

Learn about how this mathematician, who grew up in poverty in China, eventually graduated with advanced degrees. He then went on to conceive the math that supports string theory, the idea that holds that the universe is built of ten-dimensional subatomic vibrating strings. His story that will have you rethinking the possibilities of math.

 One student's master's thesis uses math to predict the placement of non-BCS players in the NFL. Take a look.

Check out this great ad from the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering

 In a disaster, having the right warnings can help to prepare people and save lives.

Mathematicians in Australia have created models that can help locate the best places for positioning buoys that can warn the maximum number of people of coming tsunamis.

Graphic designer Simon Page uses his background in mathematics to incorporate geometric shapes into his designs. For his creative work, he was selected as graphic designer for the International Year of Astronomy in 2009 by the International Astronomical Union and UNICEF.

Check out his designs and read his interview, in which he talks about his use of math in his design work.

Interested in medical science?

Mathematical models developed at Purdue University in Indiana are helping scientists understand how embryonic stem cells later turn into specific tissues. This research opens new implications for understanding and treating developmental disorders and even some diseases.

When will I use this?

Meet professionals from a number of exciting fields, who use mathematics in their jobs every day, in the We Use Math video series.  After months of planning and filming, the introduction segment is now complete and ready for viewing.