A Student Research Course on Data Analytics Problems from Industry: PIC Math

The PIC Math program works with mathematical sciences faculty at US institutions to help them prepare students for careers in today’s workforce. PIC Math faculty engage their students to solve data science and other research problems that come directly from industry. To accomplish the program’s objectives, the authors conduct a three-day summer training workshop for faculty, provide resources and training so faculty can successfully teach a semester-long course in which students are mentored in solving a research problem, and organize a student summer recognition conference. In the first three years, 107 faculty members from 101 institutions, including 16 historically black colleges and universities and Hispanic-serving institutions, have participated in PIC Math. Faculty mentored 1,397 undergraduate students in research that came from more than 170 business and government agencies.