Welcome to Modern Mathematical Physics: A Note from the Editorial Office

On 6 June 2024, we had the privilege of visiting Professor Chang-Pu Sun at the China Academy of Engineering Physics. During our meeting, we introduced him to a series of physics journals published by MDPI. Professor Sun praised MDPI for selecting simple and intuitive names for our journals. Many names that might appear to have been taken by other publishers were actually proposed and registered by MDPI after 2010. Notably, the term “Physics” [1] had not been used by international journals prior to our introduction, which surprised Professor Sun.

During the discussion, Professor Sun pointed out that there was a lack of some specialized and representative journals in the field of physics, particularly in mathematical physics. Given his early research interest in this area, he enthusiastically suggested launching a new journal. When it came to naming the journal, it was noted that “mathematical physics” might be too generic and could lead to confusion with conventional one, which is a well-established discipline in mathematics. Therefore, the new journal was proposed to focus on both “mathematical methods and results in physics“ and “emergent mathematics from physics“, rather than conventional “mathematical physics” as it is understood from the angle of pure mathematics or computation. To further distinguish it from journals in pure mathematics, the word “modern” was added, resulting in the final title: “Modern Mathematical Physics”.

For the journal’s logo design, we drew inspiration from Professor Chen-Ning Yang’s unique view on the relationship between mathematics and physics. He sees the two fields as intertwined yet distinct, much like the symmetrically opposed leaves of a tree—closely connected but maintaining their own identities. Professor Sun appreciated this concept.

Modern Mathematical Physics (MMP) [2] (ISSN 3042-5034) is a leading open-access journal dedicated to the more rapid publication of cutting-edge research in three main areas: mathematical methods in physics, the rigorous formulation of physical theories, and new mathematics inspired by physical problems (often referred to as physical mathematics). MMP covers a wide array of topics, including quantum theory, string theory, statistical thermodynamics, condensed matter physics, and even the fundamentals of engineering physics. While MMP primarily publishes theoretical work, it also welcomes original research that enhances our understanding of complex phenomena and thought experiments within rigorous mathematical frameworks. Each year, the journal organizes Special Issues that focus on emerging topics and interdisciplinary applications within mathematical physics.

As a journal, MMP is committed to publishing original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and insightful communications that contribute significantly to the advancement of mathematical physics. We strive to maintain a rigorous yet efficient peer-review process, ensuring that the work we publish not only meets the highest standards of scientific quality but also fosters a vibrant forum for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to disseminate their findings, exchange ideas, and collaborate across disciplines.

On behalf of the Editorial Office, we extend a warm welcome to all contributors and readers of Modern Mathematical Physics. Together, we have the opportunity to shape the future of this dynamic field, advancing our understanding of the universe through the powerful synergy of mathematics and physics.