James Stuart Tanton achieved a doctorate in mathematics from Princeton University in 1994, completing a thesis in algebraic topology titled A Homological Fibration for Gl [infinity]. Since his graduation from the University of Adelaide in 1988, he has built a career focused on curriculum development, teaching, and the global communication of mathematical concepts.
Academic Foundation and Early Teaching
Before dedicating his efforts to broader educational outreach, Tanton held faculty positions at several institutions. After earning his B.A. from the University of Adelaide, he pursued graduate studies at Princeton, where he was honored with the Princeton University Engineering Council Teaching Award. His early professional career included teaching roles at New College, St. Mary's College of Maryland, and Merrimack College. In 1999, he received the Homer L. Dodge Award for college teaching excellence.
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To better understand the challenges faced by high school educators, Tanton taught at St. Mark's School in Southborough, Massachusetts, between 2002 and 2011. During this period, he won the 2006 Kidder Faculty Prize. He documented the activities of the St. Mark’s Institute of Mathematics in his 2012 book, Mathematics Galore.
Global Mathematics Outreach
Tanton serves as the Mathematician-at-Large for the Mathematical Association of America and is the Associate Coordinator of Public Programs at the Berkeley School of Education. He co-founded the Global Math Project, which provides curriculum on topics such as place-value and polynomial algebra to students and teachers in over 150 countries. His commitment to accessible education extends to his role as Chief Mathematics Officer for All the Maths with SmartWithIt.
Multimedia and Curricular Contributions
Beyond traditional instruction, Tanton produces extensive digital content. His YouTube channel features approximately 590 videos, which had garnered over 8.4 million views as of May 2026. He has authored more than ten books, including The Encyclopedia of Mathematics and Solve This: Mathematical Activities for Students and Clubs, the latter of which earned the Beckenback Book Prize. Additionally, he self-published the Thinking Mathematics! series and various geometry texts.
Fast facts
- Born: 1966, Adelaide, Australia
- Ph.D. in Mathematics: Princeton University, 1994
- Spouse: Lindy Elkins-Tanton
- YouTube Presence: Over 8.4 million views
- Global Math Project reach: Over 7.8 million students
- Mathematical Association of America role: Mathematician-at-Large
- Professional current role: Associate Coordinator of Public Programs, Berkeley School of Education
Questions readers ask
What is the focus of the Global Math Project?
It provides innovative curriculum on topics like place-value and polynomial algebra to students and teachers across more than 150 countries.
Where did James Tanton teach before his current role?
He taught at New College, St. Mary's College of Maryland, Merrimack College, and St. Mark's School.
